Common Name(s): Pmma,plexiglas powder,acrylic microspheres
CAS Number: 9011-14-7
DESCRIPTION
What It Does: Provides soft-focus optical diffusion from transparent pmma microspheres.
Why It's Used: Premium optical diffusing ingredient โ pmma's transparency combined with spherical geometry provides ideal mie scattering for maximum soft-focus at minimal loading.
How It Works: Transparent spheres (2-20ฮผm) provide mie scattering of visible light for isotropic diffusion. pmma ri (1.49) close to but distinct from air (1.0) provides efficient mie scattering. excellent anti-tack from sphere-to-sphere rolling motion.
Typically Found In: Anti-aging primers,soft-focus foundations,pore-minimizing products
TECHNICAL DETAILS
Primary Category: Functional ingredient โ acrylic polymer powder
Secondary Functions: Skin conditioning
Application Areas:
Facial Skincare
Body Care
Hair Care
Beard Care
Color Cosmetics (Makeup)
Dietary/Oral Supplements
Typical Concentration Range: 0.5%โ20%
SOURCING & ETHICS
Vegan Status: Conditional - supplier confirmation required
Halal Status: Unverified - supplier confirmation required
Source Notes: Commercially produced for cosmetic use. verify vegan/halal status with supplier. [audit 2026-07-29 rev2: the record's own source_notes does not assert a non-animal origin, or instructs the reader to verify with the supplier; "yes" asserts knowledge the record does not hold. determination requires shariah-panel sign-off.]
SKIN COMPATIBILITY
Irritancy Rating: 1/5 โ very low
Comedogenicity Rating: 0/5 โ non-comedogenic
Sensitivity Concerns: Well-tolerated by most skin types.
Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes
SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY
Safety Profile: Good safety profile at recommended concentrations. ewg score: 1โ2.
Works Well With: Standard skincare actives
Avoid Combining With: No known significant incompatibilities
SCIENTIFIC NOTE
Pmma microspheres' transparency is their key advantage over opaque mineral powders for soft-focus applications: transparent spheres redirect (diffuse) light while remaining optically clear, vs opaque minerals that both diffuse and absorb light. this transparency means pmma provides the same soft-focus diffusion as opaque silica at lower concentrations while maintaining the 'lit from within' luminosity opaque powders suppress.
Last Verified: 2026-03-12
Primary Sources: Cosing database,cir safety assessment