Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA), also known as Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, is a film-forming polymer used in cosmetics and personal care products. It is a porous polymer that can absorb excess sebum or acne-producing oils. It is commonly found in sunscreens, eye makeup, primers, and nail polish. It imparts an elegant texture to products and is also used to scatter light, reducing the appearance of fine lines on the skin. It is also used as a viscosity increasing agent.
Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer can cause minor irritation to the skin and eyes.
It is recommended to perform a patch test before using products containing Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, especially for those with sensitive skin. The recommended usage percentage for Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer in cosmetics is 0.1-14%.
Polymethyl Methacrylate is a synthetic polymer made from methyl methacrylate monomers. It is produced through a process called polymerization, where the monomers are linked together to form a long chain.
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has assessed the safety of Polymethyl Methacrylate, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, and Methyl Methacrylate/Glycol Methacrylate Crosspolymer and concluded that these polymers are safe for use as cosmetic ingredients.
Polymethyl Methacrylate is also used in medical devices, such as intraocular lenses, bone cement, and dental fillers. It is also used in the production of acrylic glass, which is a lightweight and shatter-resistant material.