Ammonium Polyacrylate
AKA “Polyacrylic acid ammonium salt”
Surfactant
Ingredient Facts
Ammonium polyacrylate
AKA: Polyacrylic acid ammonium salt
Surfactant · Cleansing · EWG: 2
Synthetic
Cleanser
Occlusive
Clean
2-Propenoic acid, homopolymer, ammonium salt
CAS #
9003-03-6
Form
Powder
See origin →
Functions
Film Forming
Creates a physical seal on skin to lock moisture in and keep irritants out. The "slugging" ingredient — barrier protection.
Light Stabilizer
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Shields from UV damage
Traditional Use
A synthetic polymer developed in the mid-20th century. Used in cosmetics as a thickening and film-forming agent with no traditional or historical precedent.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types, gentle
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR