Polymer Tempera. Polymer tempera is a modern painting medium that combines pigments with a synthetic polymer emulsion, creating a fast-drying, durable paint with a matte finish similar to traditional egg tempera. Unlike egg tempera, however, polymer tempera is water-soluble and does not require the use of an egg yolk binder, making it easier to work with and more versatile in contemporary settings. It is used in art for its fine, smooth application, strong color retention, and resistance to yellowing or cracking over time. Artists favor it for detailed work, layering, and glazing effects, as it allows for both opacity and translucency, making it ideal for a range of artistic styles from realism to abstract.