At a glance
- CAS number
- 9003-04-7
- INCI name
- Sodium Polyacrylate
- Function
- thickener, film_former, humectant, emulsifier
- Typical use level
- 0.5%–3%
- Solubility
- water
- Stable pH
- 6–9
CAS number and synonyms are sourced from PubChem. Function, usage levels, pH and compatibility are AI-assisted formulation guidance — verify against your supplier's technical data sheet and applicable regulations before use.
Also known as
Polyacrylic Acid Sodium Salt Sodium Salt of Polyacrylic Acid Carbomer Sodium Salt Acrylates Copolymer Sodium Salt
Compatibility
Works well with:
Glycerin Hyaluronic Acid Niacinamide Panthenol Allantoin Aloe Vera
Use caution with:
High concentrations of electrolytes Polyvalent cations (e.g. Calcium, Magnesium salts) Strong acids
Sodium Polyacrylate is sensitive to high ionic-strength environments; electrolytes such as sodium chloride and divalent cations (calcium, magnesium) can cause chain collapse, reducing viscosity significantly. It performs best in low-electrolyte, near-neutral to slightly alkaline systems. Strongly acidic conditions protonate the carboxylate groups, diminishing swelling and thickening efficacy.
Formulation notes
Sodium Polyacrylate is a superabsorbent anionic polymer widely used in cosmetic and personal care formulas as a rheology modifier, forming smooth, silky gels without the need for neutralization unlike carbomers. It provides a lightweight, non-tacky skin feel and can assist in moisture retention by binding water at the skin surface. Formulators should note that high electrolyte concentrations or polyvalent metal ions will destabilize the gel network, and it is not suitable for use in heavily salt-containing systems.
Frequently asked questions
What is Sodium Polyacrylate?
Sodium Polyacrylate is a thickener, film_former, humectant, emulsifier used in cosmetic and personal-care formulation. Typical use level is 0.5%–3%. It is water-soluble. Stable in the pH 6–9 range.
What is Sodium Polyacrylate used for?
Sodium Polyacrylate is used as thickener, film_former, humectant, emulsifier in cosmetic and personal-care formulations.
What is the typical use level of Sodium Polyacrylate?
Sodium Polyacrylate is typically used at 0.5%–3% in the finished formulation. Always confirm against your supplier's technical data sheet.
What is the CAS number of Sodium Polyacrylate?
The CAS registry number for Sodium Polyacrylate is 9003-04-7. Its INCI name is Sodium Polyacrylate.
At what pH is Sodium Polyacrylate stable?
Sodium Polyacrylate is generally stable in the pH 6–9 range.
What ingredients are compatible with Sodium Polyacrylate?
Sodium Polyacrylate works well with Glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide, Panthenol, Allantoin, Aloe Vera. Use caution when combining it with High concentrations of electrolytes, Polyvalent cations (e.g. Calcium, Magnesium salts), Strong acids.
Related ingredients
- Hydroxypropyl MethylcelluloseThickener
- Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate CopolymerThickener
- Hydroxypropyl Starch PhosphateThickener
- CarbomerThickener
- Xanthan GumThickener
- Acrylates CopolymerFilm Former