Polyacrylic Acid
AKA “PAA, Poly(acrylic acid)”
Synthetic
Ingredient Facts
Polyacrylic acid
AKA: PAA, Poly(acrylic acid)
Synthetic · Emulsion Stabilising · EWG: 4
Synthetic
Occlusive
Emulsifier
Synthetic
Clean
A natural polymer that helps create smooth, stable formulas and gives products a light, protective layer on skin.
CAS #
9003-01-4
Form
Liquid
State
Solid
See origin →
Functions
Binding
Emulsion Stabilising
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Film Forming
Creates a physical seal on skin to lock moisture in and keep irritants out. The "slugging" ingredient — barrier protection.
Viscosity Controlling
Holds Formula Together
Stabilizes Emulsion
Creates Protective Barrier
Controls Viscosity
Reduces Inflammation
Wound Healing
Fights Bacteria
Traditional Use
Developed in the mid-20th century as a synthetic polymer. Adopted by cosmetics and pharmaceuticals as a thickening, gelling, and stabilizing agent from the 1960s onward.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Verified Feb 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR