Ingredient deep-dive
Sodium Polyacrylate: Is It a Microplastic?
Superabsorbent acrylic polymer, the same material used in nappies. In cosmetics it thickens and holds water. Synthetic and persistent, but water-swellable rather than a solid particle.
Where it appears
- Gel masks
- Thickened serums
- Hydrogel patches
- Deodorant gels
Regulatory status (2026)
European Union
Permitted; not a solid microbead.
United States
No federal restriction.
Cleaner alternatives
- Xanthan gum
- Hyaluronic acid
- Agar
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Download on the App StoreSodium Polyacrylate, common questions
Is Sodium Polyacrylate a microplastic?
Is Sodium Polyacrylate banned?
What can I use instead of Sodium Polyacrylate?
What products contain Sodium Polyacrylate?
Related ingredients
Acrylates Copolymer
Acrylate / vinyl polymer · High concern
Synthetic film-forming plastic used widely in makeup, sunscreens, and hair fixatives.
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Acrylate / vinyl polymer · High concern
Cross-linked acrylic polymer thickener. Same plastic family as Acrylates Copolymer.
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Acrylate / vinyl polymer · Medium concern
Cross-linked polyacrylic acid thickener. Synthetic polymer, though much smaller particles than microbeads.
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Acrylate / vinyl polymer · Medium concern
Polymer thickener / absorbent. Plastic family used in absorbent gels and lotions.
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