Ingredient review
Poloxamer 335
INCI: Poloxamer 335
Poloxamer 335 is a gentle synthetic ingredient that helps mix oil and water in cleansers and lotions, making products feel smooth without stripping the skin.
In plain English
Poloxamer 335 is a man-made molecule that acts like a bridge between oil and water. In skincare, it helps ingredients that normally don't mix (like oil and water) blend together into a stable, smooth formula. It's commonly found in cleansers and shampoos because it can help remove dirt and oil without being harsh. Think of it as a gentle helper that keeps your products from separating and makes them feel nicer on your 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 335 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 335.
- 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 335 is a synthetic block copolymer made from ethylene oxide and propylene oxide. It belongs to the poloxamer family, which are non-ionic surfactants known for their mildness and versatility in cosmetic formulations.
How it works
Poloxamer 335 works by reducing the surface tension between oil and water, allowing them to mix into a stable emulsion. In cleansers, it helps lift dirt and oil from the skin so they can be rinsed away. It also acts as a thickening agent and can improve the feel of a product, making it spread more easily.
Pros
Gentle cleanser
Poloxamer 335 is known for being mild on the skin, making it suitable for daily use without causing irritation or stripping natural oils.
Improves product feel
It helps create a smooth, non-greasy texture in lotions and cleansers, enhancing the user experience.
Cons and cautions
Synthetic ingredient
Poloxamer 335 is man-made, which may be a concern for those seeking natural or plant-based skincare options.
Potential for dryness
In high concentrations, it can be slightly drying for very sensitive or dry skin types, though it is generally mild.
Best for
- People with normal to combination skin
- Those looking for gentle, effective cleansers
- Anyone using products that need stable emulsions
Use caution if
- Individuals with extremely dry or compromised skin barriers who prefer oil-based cleansing
Usage tips
Safety summary
Poloxamer 335 is considered safe for use in cosmetics. It has low irritation and sensitization potential. Regulatory bodies like the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) have evaluated poloxamers and found them safe for their intended uses.
Research notes
Research on poloxamer 335 is limited but consistent with the broader poloxamer family, which shows good safety profiles and mildness. Studies indicate low acute toxicity and no significant skin irritation in standard tests.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US, EU, and many other regions. Generally recognized as safe when used as directed.
- Common uses
- Cleansers, Shampoos, Body washes, Lotions, Makeup removers
- Environmental note
- Poloxamers are synthetic and not biodegradable, but they are used in low concentrations and are considered low risk to aquatic life in typical cosmetic use.
Good to know
- Poloxamer 335 is also used in some medical and pharmaceutical applications due to its low toxicity.
- It is often listed as 'Poloxamer 335' or under trade names like Pluronic P-105 on ingredient labels.
Common questions
What is Poloxamer 335 in beauty products?
Poloxamer 335 is a man-made molecule that acts like a bridge between oil and water. In skincare, it helps ingredients that normally don't mix (like oil and water) blend together into a stable, smooth formula. It's commonly found in cleansers and shampoos because it can help remove dirt and oil without being harsh. Think of it as a gentle helper that keeps your products from separating and makes them feel nicer on your skin.
What does Poloxamer 335 do in a beauty product?
Poloxamer 335 works by reducing the surface tension between oil and water, allowing them to mix into a stable emulsion. In cleansers, it helps lift dirt and oil from the skin so they can be rinsed away. It also acts as a thickening agent and can improve the feel of a product, making it spread more easily.
Is Poloxamer 335 safe for most people?
Poloxamer 335 is considered safe for use in cosmetics. It has low irritation and sensitization potential. Regulatory bodies like the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) have evaluated poloxamers and found them safe for their intended uses.
Who should be careful with Poloxamer 335?
Individuals with extremely dry or compromised skin barriers who prefer oil-based cleansing
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.