Polybutyl Methacrylate
AKA “PBMA, Poly(butyl methacrylate)
Ingredient
Ingredient Facts
Polybutyl methacrylate
AKA: PBMA, Poly(butyl methacrylate)
Ingredient · Film Forming · EWG: 4
Synthetic
Occlusive
Not Clean
Homopolymer of butyl methacrylate
CAS #
9003-63-8
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.
Creates Protective Barrier
Traditional Use
Developed in the mid-20th century as a synthetic acrylic polymer. Used in cosmetics since the 1960s as a film-forming agent to provide long-lasting wear and water resistance in nail polishes and makeup products.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
General
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR