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Polyacrylic Acid

What Polyacrylic Acid is & what it does

Polyacrylic Acid is a synthetic polymer of acrylic acid used primarily as a thickener and stabilizer. In skincare and sunscreen formulas it helps build viscosity, suspend pigments and UV filters, and stabilize emulsions for a more uniform texture. It is closely related to the carbomer family and is valued for giving lightweight, gel-like consistencies.

What does Polyacrylic Acid do in skincare?

Polyacrylic Acid is a synthetic polymer used as a thickener and stabilizer. In skincare and sunscreen formulas it builds viscosity, helps suspend pigments and UV filters, and stabilizes emulsions for a smoother, more uniform texture. It is closely related to the carbomer family of thickeners.

Is Polyacrylic Acid natural or synthetic?

Polyacrylic Acid is a fully synthetic ingredient made by polymerizing acrylic acid. It is not plant or animal derived, which means it is typically suitable for vegan formulations. It is manufactured to give consistent thickening performance.

Is Polyacrylic Acid safe?

Polyacrylic Acid is a widely used cosmetic polymer and is generally regarded as safe for topical use at the levels found in formulas. As a large polymer that mainly stays on the skin surface, it is considered low risk for most people. Individual sensitivity can still occur, as with any ingredient.

Sunscreens with Polyacrylic Acid

We rate 15 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

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