Polyacrylamide polymer itself is considered safe at use levels. The primary safety concern is residual acrylamide MONOMER contamination from incomplete polymerization. Acrylamide is a confirmed neurotoxin, IARC Group 2A carcinogen (probable), and CMR 1B reproductive toxin. SCCS Opinion SCCS/1509/13 (2014) sets limits: leave-on products max 0.1 ppm acrylamide residue, rinse-off max 0.5 ppm. CIR (2005) recommends residue below 0.2 ppm. Acrylamide is also on ECHA SVHC candidate list (SVHC as substance). Formulators must verify COA for acrylamide monomer levels before use.
Function & Common Use
Film Forming, Binder, Antistatic
Polymer / Film Former
Hair styling products, nail products, skin-conditioning gels
Synthetic
Concentration Limits
Not verified in source checked
No limit on polymer itself; acrylamide monomer residue max 0.1 ppm (leave-on), 0.5 ppm (rinse-off) per SCCS/1509/13
No polymer limit; CIR recommends acrylamide monomer residue below 0.2 ppm
Not verified in source checked
Format restriction: Both (leave-on and rinse-off limits differ for acrylamide monomer residue)
Baby restriction: Caution recommended; avoid in baby products pending lower exposure calculations
Pregnancy: Acrylamide is a reproductive toxin (CMR 1B); pregnancy caution warranted for high-exposure formats
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Polyacrylamide safe to use in skincare?
Polyacrylamide has a Medium concern rating. Polyacrylamide polymer itself is considered safe at use levels. The primary safety concern is residual acrylamide MONOMER contamination from incomplete polymerization. Acrylamide is a confirmed neurotoxin, IARC Group 2A carcinogen (probable), and CMR 1B reproductive toxin. SCCS Opinion SCCS/1509/13 (2014) sets limits: leave-on products max 0.1 ppm acrylamide residue, rinse-off max 0.5 ppm. CIR (2005) recommends residue below 0.2 ppm. Acrylamide is also on ECHA SVHC candidate list (SVHC as substance). Formulators must verify COA for acrylamide monomer levels before use.
Is Polyacrylamide allowed in India?
Polyacrylamide is currently classified as "Permitted; no specific acrylamide residue limit stated in India Cosmetics Rules 2020; not verified in source checked" under Indian cosmetics regulations. The maximum permitted concentration is Not verified in source checked.
What is Polyacrylamide used for in cosmetics?
Polyacrylamide functions as: Film Forming, Binder, Antistatic. It is commonly found in: Hair styling products, nail products, skin-conditioning gels.
Can Polyacrylamide cause an allergic reaction?
Yes. Polyacrylamide has an allergen flag (None identified for polymer; acrylamide monomer is neurotoxic and potential carcinogen at high exposures). If you have sensitive skin or known fragrance/contact allergies, patch-test products containing this ingredient before full use.
Is Polyacrylamide safe for babies?
Polyacrylamide has baby/child restrictions: Caution recommended; avoid in baby products pending lower exposure calculations. Avoid using products containing this ingredient on infants unless specifically formulated and labelled for baby use.
Regulatory Status
EU Annex: Subject to monomer impurity limits per SCCS opinion (not a full annex listing of the polymer, but regulated via residual monomer limits)
Identifiers
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