Ingredient review
Polyanthranilic Acid Sulfate
INCI: Polyanthranilic Acid Sulfate
A synthetic film-former that helps products last longer, but with very limited published research on its safety or efficacy.
In plain English
Polyanthranilic Acid Sulfate is a man-made ingredient that creates a thin, flexible film on skin, hair, or nails. It's most often found in waterproof or long-wear makeup like mascara and eyeliner, where it helps the product resist smudging and water. Think of it as a clear, invisible coating that helps makeup stay put.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Useful in the right context, but not low-maintenance
The evidence base is still emerging, so marketing claims deserve extra caution.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- synthetic
- Evidence
- emerging
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Read the cautions before using
Polyanthranilic Acid Sulfate is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Polyanthranilic Acid Sulfate.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
emergingThe ingredient may be promising, but claims should be treated more cautiously.
What it is
A synthetic polymer derived from anthranilic acid, chemically modified with sulfate groups to improve water resistance and film-forming ability.
How it works
When applied, the polymer chains spread out and then dry into a continuous, flexible film. This film physically blocks water and oils from disturbing the product underneath, giving long-wear and water-resistant properties.
Pros
Long-lasting wear
Creates a durable film that helps makeup resist fading, smudging, and water throughout the day.
Lightweight feel
Despite its film-forming ability, it typically dries to a thin, flexible layer that doesn't feel heavy or cakey.
Cons and cautions
Limited safety research
There are very few published studies on this specific ingredient, making it hard to fully assess long-term safety.
Potential for tightness
In some formulations, the film can feel slightly tight or stiff on the skin, especially around the eyes.
Best for
- Anyone wanting long-wear or waterproof makeup
- People with oily eyelids who need smudge-proof eyeliner
Use caution if
- Those with very sensitive skin or a history of reactions to synthetic polymers
Usage tips
Safety summary
Generally considered safe at low concentrations in rinse-off or limited-use products, but long-term safety data is lacking. Patch testing is recommended for sensitive individuals.
Research notes
Published research on Polyanthranilic Acid Sulfate is minimal. Most information comes from manufacturer data and general polymer safety assessments.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically used at low concentrations, often under 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US and EU, but not specifically reviewed by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel as of 2025.
- Common uses
- Mascara, Eyeliners, Nail products
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic polymer, it may not be biodegradable. Its environmental impact is not well studied.
Good to know
- This ingredient is not commonly found in everyday skincare; it's mostly used in color cosmetics.
- It is often combined with other film-formers to fine-tune the texture and flexibility of the final product.
Common questions
What is Polyanthranilic Acid Sulfate in beauty products?
Polyanthranilic Acid Sulfate is a man-made ingredient that creates a thin, flexible film on skin, hair, or nails. It's most often found in waterproof or long-wear makeup like mascara and eyeliner, where it helps the product resist smudging and water. Think of it as a clear, invisible coating that helps makeup stay put.
What does Polyanthranilic Acid Sulfate do in a beauty product?
When applied, the polymer chains spread out and then dry into a continuous, flexible film. This film physically blocks water and oils from disturbing the product underneath, giving long-wear and water-resistant properties.
Is Polyanthranilic Acid Sulfate safe for most people?
Generally considered safe at low concentrations in rinse-off or limited-use products, but long-term safety data is lacking. Patch testing is recommended for sensitive individuals.
Who should be careful with Polyanthranilic Acid Sulfate?
Those with very sensitive skin or a history of reactions to synthetic polymers
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.