Ingredient review
Sodium Styrene/Acrylates/PEG-10 Dimaleate Copolymer
INCI: SODIUM STYRENE/ACRYLATES/PEG-10 DIMALEATE COPOLYMER
A synthetic polymer that helps makeup and sunscreen stay put longer by forming a flexible film on the skin.
In plain English
This ingredient is a type of plastic-like polymer that creates a thin, flexible film on your skin. It's commonly used in products like sunscreen, foundation, and mascara to help them resist water, sweat, and smudging. Think of it as a gentle 'glue' that holds the product in place without feeling heavy or sticky.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Sodium Styrene/Acrylates/PEG-10 Dimaleate Copolymer 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 Sodium Styrene/Acrylates/PEG-10 Dimaleate Copolymer.
- 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
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
A synthetic copolymer made from styrene, acrylates, and PEG-10 dimaleate. It is designed to form a film on the skin or hair, improving the durability and feel of cosmetic products.
How it works
When applied, the polymer molecules spread out and link together as the solvent (often water or alcohol) evaporates, creating a continuous, flexible film. This film helps other ingredients (like sunscreen filters or pigments) stay evenly distributed and resist being rubbed off or washed away.
Pros
Long-lasting wear
Helps makeup and sunscreen stay on for hours, reducing the need for frequent touch-ups.
Water resistance
Forms a barrier that resists water and sweat, making it ideal for active lifestyles or humid weather.
Cons and cautions
Removal difficulty
Products with this polymer often require an oil-based cleanser or double cleansing to fully remove, which can be inconvenient.
Potential tightness
On very dry or sensitive skin, the film can feel slightly tightening or uncomfortable, especially if layered heavily.
Best for
- People who want long-wearing makeup or water-resistant sunscreen
- Those with oily skin who need products that stay in place
Use caution if
- Individuals with very dry or compromised skin barriers who may find film-formers uncomfortable
Usage tips
Safety summary
Sodium Styrene/Acrylates/PEG-10 Dimaleate Copolymer is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, though individuals with very sensitive skin may experience mild tightness. No significant safety concerns have been raised by regulatory bodies.
Research notes
Limited independent research is available specifically for this copolymer, but it is structurally similar to other acrylate copolymers that have been reviewed by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel and found safe for use in cosmetics. Most evidence comes from manufacturer safety data and regulatory approvals.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US, EU, and other major markets. No known restrictions at typical usage levels.
- Common uses
- Sunscreens, Foundations, Mascaras, Long-wear makeup, Water-resistant products
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic polymer, it may not be biodegradable. However, it is used in low concentrations and is not considered a major environmental concern compared to microplastics.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often listed near the end of ingredient lists because it's used in small amounts.
- It is not a preservative or active ingredient, but a performance enhancer.
Common questions
What is Sodium Styrene/Acrylates/PEG-10 Dimaleate Copolymer in beauty products?
This ingredient is a type of plastic-like polymer that creates a thin, flexible film on your skin. It's commonly used in products like sunscreen, foundation, and mascara to help them resist water, sweat, and smudging. Think of it as a gentle 'glue' that holds the product in place without feeling heavy or sticky.
What does Sodium Styrene/Acrylates/PEG-10 Dimaleate Copolymer do in a beauty product?
When applied, the polymer molecules spread out and link together as the solvent (often water or alcohol) evaporates, creating a continuous, flexible film. This film helps other ingredients (like sunscreen filters or pigments) stay evenly distributed and resist being rubbed off or washed away.
Is Sodium Styrene/Acrylates/PEG-10 Dimaleate Copolymer safe for most people?
Sodium Styrene/Acrylates/PEG-10 Dimaleate Copolymer is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, though individuals with very sensitive skin may experience mild tightness. No significant safety concerns have been raised by regulatory bodies.
Who should be careful with Sodium Styrene/Acrylates/PEG-10 Dimaleate Copolymer?
Individuals with very dry or compromised skin barriers who may find film-formers uncomfortable
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.