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Polyamide-3

What Polyamide-3 is & what it does

Polyamide-3 is a synthetic polymer from the polyamide (nylon-type) family. In cosmetic and sunscreen formulas it is typically used as a viscosity-controlling or texturizing agent, helping shape the feel, body, and spreadability of a product. A notable property is that, as a polymer, it can form a film or modify rheology, which contributes to a smooth application.

What does Polyamide-3 do in skincare?

Polyamide-3 is a synthetic polymer used in skincare and sunscreen formulas mainly as a viscosity-controlling and texturizing agent. It helps shape a product's body, feel, and spreadability and can contribute to a smooth application. It is a texture-supporting ingredient rather than an active.

Is Polyamide-3 safe?

Polyamide-3 is used in cosmetics as a film-forming and texturizing polymer and is generally regarded as safe at the levels used in formulas. As a large polymer it is not designed to penetrate the skin and mainly works on texture and feel. Individual sensitivities are always possible, so patch testing is reasonable for reactive skin.

Is Polyamide-3 natural or synthetic?

Polyamide-3 is a synthetic ingredient. It belongs to the polyamide (nylon-type) family of polymers, which are manufactured rather than sourced directly from nature. It is produced to provide consistent texture and performance in cosmetic formulas.

Sunscreens with Polyamide-3

We rate 37 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

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