Ingredient review
Poloxamer 183
INCI: Poloxamer 183
Poloxamer 183 is a gentle synthetic emulsifier that helps mix oil and water, making it a common choice for cleansers and lotions.
In plain English
Poloxamer 183 is a man-made ingredient that acts like a bridge between oil and water. In your skincare products, it helps keep the formula stable and evenly mixed, so you don't get a watery layer on top or a greasy blob at the bottom. It's often used in cleansers and shampoos because it can help lift dirt and oil without being harsh on the skin.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Poloxamer 183 is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Poloxamer 183.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
Poloxamer 183 is a synthetic block copolymer made from ethylene oxide and propylene oxide. It belongs to the poloxamer family, which are known for their ability to act as surfactants (surface-active agents) and emulsifiers. The number '183' refers to its specific molecular structure, which determines its balance of water-loving and oil-loving properties.
How it works
In a cosmetic product, Poloxamer 183 reduces the surface tension between oil and water, allowing them to mix into a stable emulsion. This helps the product spread evenly on the skin and improves the cleansing ability by helping water rinse away oils and dirt. It also helps stabilize the formula so it doesn't separate over time.
Pros
Gentle on skin
Poloxamer 183 is considered low-irritation and is often used in products for sensitive skin because it cleans without stripping natural oils.
Improves product stability
It helps keep oil and water mixed, preventing your lotion or cleanser from separating, which means you get a consistent product every time.
Cons and cautions
Synthetic origin
It is made in a lab, so it may not appeal to those seeking 100% natural or 'clean' beauty products.
Potential for mild irritation
While generally safe, very high concentrations could cause slight stinging or redness in extremely sensitive skin.
Best for
- Anyone using cleansers or lotions who wants a stable, well-mixed product
- People with normal to combination skin looking for a gentle cleanser
Use caution if
- Those with known sensitivities to synthetic surfactants or who prefer exclusively natural ingredients
Usage tips
Safety summary
Poloxamer 183 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, making it suitable for most skin types. However, as with any ingredient, patch testing is recommended for those with very sensitive skin.
Research notes
Poloxamers have been studied extensively for their surfactant and emulsifying properties. Research indicates they are generally non-toxic and non-irritating at cosmetic use levels. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has reviewed poloxamers and found them safe for use in cosmetics.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1–5% in rinse-off products; lower in leave-on formulations
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and many other regions. Generally recognized as safe when used as directed.
- Common uses
- Cleansers, Shampoos, Body washes, Lotions
- Environmental note
- Poloxamers are synthetic and may not be readily biodegradable, though they are not known to accumulate in the environment at concerning levels.
Good to know
- Poloxamers are also used in medical and pharmaceutical products, which speaks to their safety profile.
- The number '183' indicates the specific balance of hydrophilic (water-loving) and lipophilic (oil-loving) blocks.
Common questions
What is Poloxamer 183 in beauty products?
Poloxamer 183 is a man-made ingredient that acts like a bridge between oil and water. In your skincare products, it helps keep the formula stable and evenly mixed, so you don't get a watery layer on top or a greasy blob at the bottom. It's often used in cleansers and shampoos because it can help lift dirt and oil without being harsh on the skin.
What does Poloxamer 183 do in a beauty product?
In a cosmetic product, Poloxamer 183 reduces the surface tension between oil and water, allowing them to mix into a stable emulsion. This helps the product spread evenly on the skin and improves the cleansing ability by helping water rinse away oils and dirt. It also helps stabilize the formula so it doesn't separate over time.
Is Poloxamer 183 safe for most people?
Poloxamer 183 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, making it suitable for most skin types. However, as with any ingredient, patch testing is recommended for those with very sensitive skin.
Who should be careful with Poloxamer 183?
Those with known sensitivities to synthetic surfactants or who prefer exclusively natural ingredients
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.