A synthetic opacifying polymer linked in EU data to an Annex II entry.
What it is
Sodium styrene/acrylates copolymer is the sodium salt of a polymer of styrene and acrylic acid, methacrylic acid or one of their simple esters. CosIng lists it as a film-forming, opacifying and viscosity-controlling ingredient. The EU data link this ingredient to an entry in Annex II (prohibited substances).
Where it is used
Found in shower gels, shampoos, liquid soaps and other products with an opaque, milky look.
Limits of interpretation
The INCI list shows which ingredients are present, not how much of each. Above 1%, ingredients are listed in descending order of weight; below 1% the order is free.
See the EU regulation section for what the Annex II entry covers and how it applies. The INCI name does not show the monomer ratio.
Functions
- Film forming
- Producing (upon application) a continuous film on the skin, hair or nails.
- Opacifying
- Reducing transparency or translucency of cosmetics.
- Viscosity controlling
- Increasing or decreasing the viscosity (thickness) of cosmetics.
EU regulation
- As of
- 3 November 2026 · (EU) 2024/858
Scientific opinions (SCCS)
Opinions of the EU Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety that mention this ingredient. They assess specific uses and concentrations; read the opinion for its scope.
Products with this ingredient (10)
- Douche crème Fleur de Tiaré & Ambre · Labell
- ICA Duschtvål oparfymerad · ICA
- The Ritual of Ayurveda Nourishing Ultra-Shine Shampoo · Rituals
- Crème lavante à l'huile d'amande douce · Bien vu
- Shampoing extra doux Cèdre & Eucalyptus antipelliculaire · Auchan
- Shampooing volumateur · Eco+
- Gel douche extrait de lait d'amande · Leader Price
- Shampooing Doux cheveux gras Menthe & citron · Cora
- Shampooing Couleur · Netto
- Shampooing 2 en 1 · Netto