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Polyamide-8

What Polyamide-8 is & what it does

Polyamide-8 is a synthetic polymer of the polyamide (nylon-type) family used in cosmetics primarily as a thickener, gelling agent, and texture modifier. In sunscreens and creams it can help structure the formula, control viscosity, and improve the sensory feel on application. As a synthetic polymer, it contributes a smooth, non-greasy finish.

Is Polyamide-8 safe?

Polyamide-8 is a synthetic polymer used as a thickener and is generally regarded as safe in cosmetics at the levels typically used. Large polymers like this tend to stay on the skin's surface rather than penetrate. As always, patch testing is reasonable if your skin is easily irritated.

Does Polyamide-8 clog pores?

Polyamide-8 is used mainly as a texturizing and gelling agent and is not generally flagged as a common pore-clogging ingredient. Comedogenicity depends heavily on the overall formula rather than a single component. If you are acne-prone, choosing products labeled non-comedogenic is a practical approach.

Is Polyamide-8 natural or synthetic?

Polyamide-8 is synthetic. It is a man-made polymer from the polyamide (nylon-type) family, produced through chemical synthesis. It does not have a botanical or animal origin.

Sunscreens with Polyamide-8

We rate 23 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

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