POLOXAMER 188

CAS Number	9003-11-6
Chem/IUPAC Name:	Oxirane, methyl-, polymer with oxirane (75;30)
EINECS/ELINCS No:	232-089-9
COSING REF No:	80135

Poloxamer 188 is a widely used surfactant that allows oil and water to be finely mixed - helping form stable products as well as deep cleanse the skin. It also aids in the generation of foam for a better cleansing experience. Further, Poloxamer 188 is a good antimicrobial agent that keeps the formulations well preserved. This polymer can occur as a colorless liquid/paste or as a white solid. The chemical name of Poloxamer 188 is a-Hydro-o-hydroxypoly(oxyethylene)poly(oxypropylene) poly-(oxyethylene) block copolymer and it is commonly added to products like shampoos, conditioners, cleansers, and eye makeup removers. Poloxamer 188 is also known by its other names such as Pluronic F68 and Vepoloxamer.

Who supplies POLOXAMER 188 ?

ADEKA

Croda

BASF

What is POLOXAMER 188 used for?

Poloxamer 188 can be known as the “detergent ingredient” for the skin and hair due to its effective cleansing and foaming properties. It allows water to mix well with oil and dirt present on the surface of the skin/scalp and wash it away - leaving it fresh and spotless. Using this property, it further helps form stable products by reducing the surface tension of liquids and keeping oil and water-based ingredients combined. Additionally, Poloxamer 188 is a powerful anti-microbial agent that prevents their growth and in turn, extends the shelf life of products. In cosmetics, this ingredient can act as a lubricant and humectant to keep the makeup from caking and the skin from drying.

Origin

Poloxamer 188 is a synthetic polymer that consists of a hydrophobic polyoxypropylene core flanked by hydrophilic polyoxyethylene chains. It is synthesized through the ethoxylation of propylene oxide and ethylene oxide. First, propylene oxide polymerizes to form the polyoxypropylene core. Then, ethylene oxide is added to both ends, creating the hydrophilic chains. This process results in a block copolymer with unique surfactant properties. The chemical formula of Poloxamer 188 is C₅H₁₀O₂.

What does POLOXAMER 188 do in a formulation?

Antimicrobial
Cleansing
Foam boosting
Foaming
Humectant
Preservative
Surfactant

Safety profile

Poloxamer 188 is safe and non-toxic when used within the recommended guidelines. It is generally well tolerated by most skin and hair types and does not have any reported side effects. A patch test can be performed before use for added safety.