Methacrylic Acid/Styrene/VP Copolymer
AKA “Methacrylic Acid, Styrene, Vinyl Pyrrolidone Copolymer
Synthetic
vote to see if the hive agrees
Ingredient Facts
Methacrylic acid/styrene/vp copolymer
AKA: Vinyl Pyrrolidone Copolymer
Synthetic · Opacifying | Film Forming | Viscosity Controlling · EWG: 4
Synthetic
Occlusive
Synthetic
Clean
A lightweight polymer that creates a smooth, opaque finish in formulas, helping products apply evenly and look polished on skin.
CAS #
27554-92-3
Form
Powder
State
Solid
Synthetic
Synthetic. Derived from three synthetic monomers: methacrylic acid, styrene, and vinyl pyrrolidone (VP), all petroleum-based chemicals. Synthesized through free-radical polymerization of the three monomers, typically initiated by peroxide or azo catalysts at elevated temperatures.
Function
Opacifying | Film Forming | Viscosity Controlling
Benefits
Adds Opacity
Locks In Moisture
Anti-Aging Benefits
Antioxidant Protection
Creates creamy opacity
Traditional Use
Synthetic polymer developed mid-to-late 20th century for use in cosmetics as a film-forming and suspending agent; designed to replace natural gums and resins with more consistent performance.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
Target
General
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
Pregnancy Safe
Yes
EWG Score4
CIR Safety Findings
medical-approval, all-shades-safe, Not a Sensitizer
Regulatory Status
USAunder review
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Feb 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR