MitoSkin

Longevity Lotion

Sun Protecting

Comprehensive Cosmetic Industry Ingredient Guide

THIS IS A UNIVERSAL REFERENCE GUIDE FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES

THE INGRIDIENT BELOW IS NOT USED IN MITOSKIN FORMULATION UNLESS STATED OTHERWISE

Ingredient
Polymethyl Methacrylate

Polymethyl Methacrylate

Summary

Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) is a versatile cosmetic ingredient that is widely used in the formulation of various personal care products. It is a synthetic polymer that is known for its excellent film-forming properties, which make it an ideal ingredient for creating long-lasting and water-resistant formulations. PMMA is also used as a bulking agent, texture enhancer, and opacifying agent in cosmetic products. It is non-toxic, non-irritating, and non-allergenic, making it suitable for use in a wide range of cosmetic applications. Overall, PMMA is a valuable ingredient that can help enhance the performance and aesthetics of cosmetic formulations.

INCI Name and Common References

International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients name: Polymethyl Methacrylate Common terms: PMMA Nicknames: Acrylic, Plexiglass

Function

Polymethyl Methacrylate is a commonly used ingredient in cosmetic formulations as a film-forming agent. It helps to create a smooth and even surface on the skin, which can improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Additionally, it can also act as a bulking agent, helping to increase the volume of a product without adding weight or heaviness. Polymethyl Methacrylate is often found in products such as foundations, primers, and powders.

Science

Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) is a thermoplastic polymer that is commonly used in various applications due to its unique physical properties. PMMA is a transparent and rigid material that has a high resistance to impact and weathering. It is also lightweight and has excellent optical clarity, making it an ideal material for use in lenses, windows, and other optical applications. In cosmetics, PMMA is used as a bulking agent and a film-forming agent. When applied to the skin, PMMA forms a thin film that helps to smooth out the surface of the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. PMMA also helps to absorb excess oil and moisture, which can help to prevent breakouts and keep the skin looking fresh and matte. Overall, the physical properties of PMMA make it an effective ingredient in cosmetics and other applications where transparency, durability, and impact resistance are important.

Benefits

Polymethyl Methacrylate is a skincare ingredient that can provide a range of benefits to users. Some of the key highlights include its ability to create a smooth, even surface on the skin, which can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It can also help to improve the texture and tone of the skin, leaving it looking brighter and more youthful. Additionally, Polymethyl Methacrylate can act as a barrier to protect the skin from environmental stressors, such as pollution and UV rays. Overall, this ingredient can be a valuable addition to any skincare routine, helping to promote healthy, radiant skin.

Negatives

Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) is a synthetic polymer that is commonly used in cosmetics and personal care products as a thickening agent, film former, and emollient. While it is generally considered safe for use in these products, there are some potential side effects, sensitivities, and interactions that should be considered. One potential side effect of PMMA is skin irritation. Some people may be sensitive to this ingredient and experience redness, itching, or other forms of irritation when using products that contain it. This is more likely to occur in individuals with sensitive skin or those who have a history of allergic reactions to other cosmetic ingredients. Another potential side effect of PMMA is the formation of small bumps or lumps under the skin. This can occur when PMMA is used as a dermal filler, which is a cosmetic procedure that involves injecting the substance into the skin to smooth out wrinkles or add volume to the face. While this is a rare side effect, it can be difficult to treat and may require surgical removal. In terms of interactions with other ingredients, PMMA is generally considered to be compatible with most other cosmetic ingredients. However, it is important to note that some ingredients may affect the performance or stability of PMMA in a product. For example, acidic ingredients like alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or salicylic acid may cause PMMA to break down more quickly, reducing its effectiveness as a thickening agent or film former. Overall, PMMA is a safe and effective ingredient that is widely used in cosmetics and personal care products. However, individuals with sensitive skin or those considering dermal filler treatments should be aware of the potential side effects and sensitivities associated with this ingredient. Additionally, formulators should take care to avoid interactions with other ingredients that may affect the performance or stability of PMMA in their products.

Source

Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) is a synthetic polymer that is derived from methyl methacrylate monomer. It is commonly known as acrylic glass or plexiglass and is used in a variety of applications such as automotive parts, medical devices, and construction materials. PMMA is produced through a process called polymerization, where the monomer is heated and treated with a catalyst to form long chains of polymer molecules. The resulting material is then processed into various forms such as sheets, rods, and tubes through extrusion or injection molding. PMMA is a versatile material that is known for its transparency, durability, and resistance to weathering and UV radiation.

Safety

Polymethyl Methacrylate has a low safety rating score according to the EWG Skin Deep database. It has been rated as a 1-2 on a scale of 1-10, with 1 being the safest and 10 being the most hazardous. This indicates that it is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products. However, it is important to note that the safety of this ingredient may vary depending on the specific product and concentration used. Other sources also suggest that Polymethyl Methacrylate is generally safe for use in cosmetics, but caution should be exercised when using it in high concentrations or in products that are applied to sensitive areas of the skin. Overall, Polymethyl Methacrylate appears to be a relatively safe ingredient when used in moderation and in accordance with product instructions.

Sustainability

Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) is a synthetic polymer that is commonly used in a variety of applications, including as a component in acrylic paints, adhesives, and dental fillings. While PMMA itself is not considered to be particularly harmful to the environment, the production and disposal of this material can have negative impacts. The production of PMMA requires the use of fossil fuels, which contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. Additionally, the disposal of PMMA can be problematic, as it is not biodegradable and can persist in the environment for hundreds of years. This can lead to issues such as microplastic pollution in waterways and harm to wildlife that ingest or become entangled in plastic waste. In terms of ethical sourcing practices, it is important to consider the potential impacts of the fossil fuel industry on local communities and the environment. Many of the raw materials used in the production of PMMA are derived from oil and gas, which can have negative impacts on the health and well-being of nearby communities and ecosystems. It is important for companies to prioritize sustainable and ethical sourcing practices, such as using recycled materials or investing in renewable energy sources, to minimize these impacts. Overall, while PMMA itself may not be particularly harmful, it is important to consider the environmental and ethical implications of its production and disposal. By prioritizing sustainable and ethical sourcing practices, we can work towards minimizing the negative impacts of this material on our planet and its inhabitants.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Polymethyl Methacrylate is a versatile ingredient commonly used in the cosmetics industry as a bulking agent and a film-forming agent. Its safety has been extensively studied and it is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics. However, its sustainability is a concern as it is not biodegradable and can contribute to plastic pollution. While it offers benefits such as improved texture and long-lasting wear, it may also have negative effects on the environment. It is derived from petroleum and can be found in various sources such as nail polish, hair sprays, and lipsticks. Overall, the use of Polymethyl Methacrylate in cosmetics should be carefully considered to balance its benefits and potential negative impacts on the environment.

Leave a Message

Chronic skin issues? Contact us for holistic advice.

powerhouse@mitoskin.org

Copyright 2023 MITOSKIN LLC