Ammonium Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer

What is Ammonium Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer?

Ammonium Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer is a synthetic polymer created through the copolymerization of styrene and acrylate monomers, then neutralized with ammonium to form a water-dispersible material. Primarily utilized in decorative cosmetics like foundations and mascaras, sunscreens, shampoos, and lotions, it serves multiple functions in formulations. As a film former, it deposits a thin, flexible layer on skin or hair, boosting adhesion, water repellency, and product longevity. In its suspending role, it stabilizes dispersions by thickening and trapping particles such as pigments or exfoliants, avoiding clumping or sedimentation. Its opacifying capability reduces transparency, lending a smooth, creamy opacity that masks inconsistencies and elevates visual quality. This versatile ingredient enables formulators to craft stable, aesthetically pleasing products without compromising texture or performance.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 2 View on EWG →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Film former
Creates a continuous film on skin or hair to improve wear, water resistance, transfer resistance, shine, or hold in sunscreens, makeup, and styling products.
Suspending agent
Keeps insoluble particles (pigments, beads, actives) evenly dispersed by increasing viscosity or forming a network, preventing settling and separation.
Opacifying agent
Makes a formula less transparent to create a creamy, opaque look; can also help visually mask suspended particles and improve aesthetic uniformity.

Benefits

Enhances product durability by forming a protective film that resists water and transfer.

Maintains even particle distribution, preventing separation for consistent application.

Provides a creamy, opaque finish that improves the look and hides formula imperfections.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Users of long-wear makeup seeking smudge-resistant formulas.
Those with rare acrylate sensitivities or allergies.
Individuals applying sunscreens or lotions that need stable emulsions.
Preferers of fully natural or polymer-free formulations.
People using pigmented products like foundations for uniform coverage.
Individuals experiencing irritation from synthetic thickeners.

Safety Notes

  • Evaluated as safe for use in cosmetics by expert panels based on available data.
  • Shows low potential for skin irritation in standard concentrations.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ammonium Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer

What does Ammonium Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer do in products?

It forms films for durability, suspends particles evenly, and opacifies formulas for a creamy look.

Is it comedogenic?

Rated 0 for comedogenicity, unlikely to clog pores.

How safe is it for skin?

Low hazard profile with minimal irritation concerns from regulatory reviews.