What Is Polyacrylamidomethyl Benzylidene Camphor?
Polyacrylamidomethyl Benzylidene Camphor is a synthetic polymer created by linking acrylamide units to a camphor-based molecule called benzylidene camphor. The camphor part has a natural origin in the wood of the camphor tree, while the acrylic part is produced from petroleum-derived feedstocks. When these pieces are combined and polymerized they form a large, stable molecule that can sit on skin and scatter or soak up ultraviolet (UV) light.
Chemists first explored camphor derivatives for sun care in the late 1980s. By the early 1990s they discovered that attaching the molecule to an acrylamide backbone made it less likely to penetrate skin and more resistant to breaking down under sunlight. This advance led to its approval for use in cosmetic products in several regions.
Industrial production starts with synthesizing benzylidene camphor, then reacting it with an acrylamide derivative to create a monomer. The monomer is mixed with an initiator and allowed to polymerize, forming long chains that are later purified and milled into a fine powder.
You will most often see Polyacrylamidomethyl Benzylidene Camphor in broad-spectrum sunscreens, daily moisturizers with SPF, anti-aging day creams, tinted foundations, setting sprays and hair products that claim UV protection. Because the polymer is large and film forming it stays on the surface, making it useful in leave-on products that need to shield skin or hair from sunlight for several hours.
Polyacrylamidomethyl Benzylidene Camphor’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient helps formulas protect skin and other cosmetic ingredients from the harmful effects of sunlight.
- Light Stabilizer – slows down the breakdown of delicate plant oils fragrances and colorants caused by exposure to light so the product stays effective and attractive for a longer shelf life
- UV Absorber – soaks up high-energy UV photons and converts them into lower-energy heat which helps reduce the amount of UV reaching skin cells
- UV Filter – forms a thin film on the skin surface that blocks a portion of UVA and UVB rays working alongside other filters to achieve broad-spectrum protection
Who Can Use Polyacrylamidomethyl Benzylidene Camphor
Because this polymer stays mostly on the skin surface it tends to suit all common skin types, including oily, combination, normal and even dry skin, provided the overall formula also contains moisturizers. Most sensitive skin users tolerate it well since the large molecule struggles to penetrate, though a very small number may still notice redness or a stinging sensation.
The ingredient is synthetic and the camphor portion is plant derived rather than animal derived, so products made with it are generally appropriate for vegans and vegetarians. Always check the finished product for any added animal sourced components or for a brand’s cruelty free status.
Current safety reviews have not flagged special risks for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding because systemic absorption is negligible, yet this is not medical advice. Expectant or nursing mothers should show the full ingredient list of any skincare product to their healthcare provider for personal guidance.
Polyacrylamidomethyl Benzylidene Camphor does not cause photosensitivity; in fact it helps guard against it by filtering UV light. There are no known interactions with common topical prescriptions or over the counter actives, so it is usually easy to slot into an existing routine.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Polyacrylamidomethyl Benzylidene Camphor vary from one individual to another. The points below describe potential side effects only and most users will not encounter them when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as intended.
- Transient skin irritation such as mild redness itching or burning
- Allergic contact dermatitis in people sensitized to acrylamide based polymers
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Rare photoallergic reaction causing rash after sun exposure
- Build up of residue or film that can feel heavy on very oily skin
If any of these effects occur stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
The molecule is a large, non-oily polymer that sits on the skin surface rather than seeping into pores, so its own tendency to clog is very low. Any heaviness you might feel usually comes from other thick emollients in the finished formula, not from this filter itself.
Overall it is considered suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
Keep in mind the total pore-clogging potential of a product depends on the whole ingredient list, especially waxes and butters that may be paired with the filter for water resistance.
Summary
Polyacrylamidomethyl Benzylidene Camphor acts as a light stabiliser, UV absorber and UV filter. It soaks up both UVA and UVB rays, converts them to low-level heat and forms a thin film that helps keep other delicate ingredients from degrading in sunlight.
While not as common as older filters, it is gaining attention among formulators looking for photo-stable broad-spectrum protection that stays mainly on the surface of skin or hair.
Safety reviews show minimal absorption and a low rate of irritation, making it a dependable option for everyday use. Still, try a small patch first when introducing any new product that contains this ingredient, especially if your skin tends to react easily.