Styrene/Acrylates/Ammonium Methacrylate Copolymer

What is Styrene/Acrylates/Ammonium Methacrylate Copolymer?

Styrene/Acrylates/Ammonium Methacrylate Copolymer is a synthetic polymer derived from the polymerization of styrene, various acrylate esters, and ammonium methacrylate monomers. Commonly found in makeup products like mascaras and foundations, sunscreens, shampoos, and styling gels, it serves multiple functions. As a film former, it deposits a flexible, continuous layer on skin or hair, boosting water resistance and longevity. In its suspending agent role, it stabilizes dispersions of pigments or actives by thickening formulas and preventing clumping. As an opacifying agent, it scatters light to give products a creamy, non-transparent appearance, improving visual appeal and hiding imperfections in suspensions. This versatile ingredient enhances texture and stability without altering skin feel significantly.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores

EWG Safety Rating 1 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 wear and resistance to water or rubbing in makeup and sunscreens.

Maintains even distribution of pigments and particles, preventing separation.

Provides a smooth, opaque finish that improves the aesthetic look of creams and lotions.

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-proof results.	Those with known sensitivities to acrylate polymers.
Individuals applying sunscreens or lotions needing stable, uniform coverage.	Individuals prone to contact dermatitis from synthetic resins.
People using shampoos or styling products for better hold and clarity.	People preferring fully natural or minimalist formulations.

Safety Notes

Considered low hazard based on assessments from cosmetic safety panels.
Non-comedogenic, unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts.

Frequently Asked Questions about Styrene/Acrylates/Ammonium Methacrylate Copolymer

What does this copolymer do in cosmetics?

It forms protective films for longevity, suspends particles evenly, and adds opacity for a creamy look.

Is it safe for daily use?

Safety reviews indicate low risk in rinse-off and leave-on products at common levels.

Does it cause acne?

It has a non-comedogenic rating, so it typically does not contribute to pore clogging.