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| Catalog Number | CI-HC-0157 |
| Product Name | PVP |
| CAS | 9003-39-8 |
| Structure |  |
| Description | PVP (polyvinylpyrrolidone) is a water soluble polymer with film forming properties. It is widely used in medicine (e.g. plasma volume expander or contact lenses). The molecular weight is K-90 (111.14 g/mol) |
| Solubility | Soluble in water and alcoholic solvents (propanols, ethanol, glycerin), insoluble in oils and hydrocarbons |
| Appearance | White to off-white powder, bland odor |
| Application | Hair care products, adhesive film forming gels, color cosmetics. |
| Storage | Store in a closed container at a dry place at room temperature |
| Composition | Polyvinylpyrrolidone |
| Features And Benefits | Effective thickening agent and film former for hair gels, hair sprays and adhesive powders and gelsUsage level is limited only by viscosityVery pH stable, non-ionic and colorlessBest when combined with carbomer or other thickeners to give stiffer hold in hair gelsActs also as a dispersant for titanium dioxide and organic pigments |
| GMO | GMO-free (does not contain plant-derived components) |
| HS Code | 2916110000 |
| INCI | Polyvinylpyrrolidone |
| Manufacture | PVP is produced synthetically by polymerization of N-vinylpyrrolidone with hydrogen peroxide. N-vinylpyrrolidone is produced by vinylation of 2-pyrrolidone. |
| Preservation | Preservative-free |
| Purity Grade | No purity grade applicable |
| Raw Material Source | N-vinylpyrrolidone |
| Uses | Typical use level 1-40%, about 4-7% in hair gels. Add to the water phase of formulations, hydrate & then mix well. For external use only. |
Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) is a high-purity, low-odor grade polymer specifically developed for skincare applications, functioning primarily as a film-former and thickening agent. As a versatile white powder, it dissolves readily in water, ethanol, isopropanol, and numerous organic solvents, making it an effective viscosity modifier in aqueous systems. PVP enhances stability in emulsions, dispersions, and suspensions, and its compatibility extends to nearly all cosmetic ingredients, including anionic, cationic, and non-ionic polymers. Its excellent detoxifying properties stem from its capacity to form complexes with toxins. Ideal for water-based applications requiring high clarity, PVP is extensively utilized in hair styling products, such as wet-look gels, hair mousses, pump sprays, and liquid hair setting solutions, offering robust hold and enhanced viscosity. Its physiologically inert nature suits formulations with concentrated alpha-hydroxy acids, serving as an emollient and humectant in skin creams, an emulsion stabilizer, and a rheology modifier in creams and lotions, all supported by a superior safety profile. Additionally, PVP acts as a pigment dispersant in decorative cosmetics, with typical usage concentrations ranging from 1% to 10%.
What is PVP, and what are its primary uses in skincare applications?
PVP, or polyvinylpyrrolidone, is a high-purity, low-odor grade polymer used primarily in skincare products as a film former and thickener. It is available as a white powder that dissolves in water, ethanol, isopropanol, and many organic solvents. PVP is particularly popular in products like gels, hair styling items, and creams due to its ability to modify viscosity and stabilize various formulations.
How does PVP contribute to the formulation of cosmetic products?
PVP acts as a viscosity modifier, stabilizing emulsions, dispersions, and suspensions. It is compatible with a broad range of cosmetic ingredients, including anionic, cationic, and non-ionic polymers, which makes it a versatile component in formulations. Additionally, PVP is valued for its detoxifying properties through the complex formation with toxins, emollient effects, and humectant qualities in creams and lotions.
In what cosmetic applications is PVP most effective?
PVP is ideal for water-based applications where clarity is important, such as in hair styling products like wet-look gels, mousses, pump sprays, and liquid hair setting preparations. It provides strong hold and high viscosity, making it a staple in hair care products. Moreover, PVP is used as a rheology modifier in creams and lotions and serves as a pigment dispersant in decorative cosmetics.
Is PVP safe for use in cosmetic and skincare products?
Yes, PVP has an excellent safety profile and is generally considered physiologically inert, making it suitable for applications that contain concentrated alpha-hydroxy acids. Its compatibility with virtually all cosmetic ingredients and its non-toxic nature contribute to its widespread acceptance and use in the cosmetic industry.
What concentrations of PVP are typically used in product formulations?
PVP is typically used at concentrations ranging from 1-10% in product formulations. This range allows for the desired effects of film-forming, thickening, and stabilizing to be achieved without compromising the safety and integrity of the product.
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