What Is Polyacrylate-39?
Polyacrylate-39 is a synthetic copolymer created from acrylic acid, acrylamidomethylpropane sulfonic acid and itaconic acid, then neutralized with sodium hydroxide to form a stable salt. This blend of monomers gives the polymer a flexible backbone that can interact with both water-based and oil-based ingredients, making it useful in many personal care formulations. The material emerged in the late 1990s as formulators searched for more efficient thickeners that would maintain clarity and stability in modern water-rich products. Production begins with controlled free-radical polymerization of the three monomers in water. Once the chain reaches the desired length the mixture is treated with sodium hydroxide, converting the acidic groups into their sodium salts and locking in the polymer’s performance properties. After purification and drying the resulting powder or pre-diluted solution is shipped to manufacturers.
You will most often see Polyacrylate-39 in lightweight gels, sheet masks, hydrating serums, anti-aging creams, daily moisturizers and sun care products where a clear, smooth texture is needed without adding significant weight or oil.
Polyacrylate-39’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient plays two key roles in a formula
- Binding agent – Helps hold other ingredients together so pigments, actives and emollients stay evenly suspended. This keeps the product uniform from the first pump to the last and prevents phase separation during shelf life
- Chelating agent – Grabs onto trace metal ions that can enter a product through water or raw materials. By tying up these metals it reduces the risk of discoloration or oxidation, extending the overall stability and freshness of the product
Who Can Use Polyacrylate-39
Because it is an inert, water-friendly polymer, Polyacrylate-39 is considered suitable for dry, oily, combination and sensitive skin. It does not clog pores or leave an occlusive film so acne-prone skin can use it comfortably. People with highly reactive or allergy-prone skin usually tolerate it well, although any formula can still contain other ingredients that may cause irritation.
The polymer is made entirely from laboratory-synthesized raw materials with no animal derivatives. That makes it appropriate for vegans and vegetarians.
Current safety data show no systemic absorption, so products containing Polyacrylate-39 are generally viewed as low risk for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. This is not medical advice; anyone who is expecting or nursing should show the full ingredient list of any cosmetic product to a qualified health professional before use.
The ingredient does not cause photosensitivity and will not interfere with sunscreens or other daytime products. It also plays well with common actives like vitamin C, niacinamide and retinoids, adding texture support without changing their effectiveness.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Polyacrylate-39 vary from person to person. The points below describe potential issues, but most users will not experience them when the ingredient is formulated and preserved correctly.
- Mild skin irritation such as transient redness or itching, more commonly seen in individuals with compromised skin barriers
- Stinging on application if applied to broken or freshly exfoliated skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis in rare cases where a person is sensitized to acrylate compounds
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes, leading to tearing or burning
If any of these reactions occur stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0/5
Polyacrylate-39 is a large, water-loving polymer that sits on the surface of skin without sinking into pores. It contains no oily or waxy components that could block follicles, and it rinses away easily with normal cleansing. For these reasons it is classed as non-comedogenic and is generally considered safe for those prone to acne or breakouts.
Because the polymer also helps keep formulas stable, it can actually reduce the chance of pore-clogging by preventing separation that might concentrate heavier ingredients in one spot.
Summary
Polyacrylate-39 works mainly as a binding and chelating agent. Its flexible chain grabs hold of pigments and actives so they stay evenly dispersed from the first use to the last. At the same time its negatively charged sites latch onto stray metal ions, stopping them from triggering color shifts or early spoilage.
You will see this polymer in clear gels, sheet masks and light creams, yet it is not as widely used as older cousins like carbomers. Formulators who need high clarity with low stickiness often pick it, so its popularity is growing in modern water-based skincare.
Current research shows it is low risk for irritation, non-sensitizing and non-comedogenic, making it a safe bet for most skin types. Still, everyone’s skin is unique so it is smart to patch test any new product that contains Polyacrylate-39.