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METHYL PYRROLIDONE.

Avoid CAS 872-50-4 / SOLVENT

Methyl Pyrrolidone, also known as N-Methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), is a potent solvent recognized for its ability to significantly enhance the skin's permeability, facilitating the transdermal delivery of various active compounds. However, its use in cosmetic formulations is strictly prohibited in the EU due to severe reproductive toxicity concerns.

Summary

Solvent Chemical Penetration Enhancer

Science

Mechanism of Action

NMP functions as a chemical penetration enhancer by increasing skin permeability. It appears to facilitate the co-transport of both hydrophilic and hydrophobic substances, forming interactions such as hydrogen bonds and π-π stacking with the target compounds without substantially altering the stratum corneum's structural integrity. Additionally, studies indicate NMP can stimulate the cutaneous immune system by activating epidermal Langerhans cells, suggesting a potential adjuvant role in topical immune responses.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range 8–10%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 NMP effectively enhances transdermal delivery for both hydrophilic and hydrophobic drugs, exemplified by its use in topical griseofulvin formulations.
  2. 02 Increased arbutin skin permeability by approximately 1.3-1.5 fold compared to a control without a penetration enhancer.
  3. 03 An 8% NMP application on murine skin stimulated epidermal Langerhans cells, acting as an adjuvant in percutaneous peptide immunization.
  4. 04 A 10% concentration significantly doubled propranolol permeation through human epidermis, increasing it from approximately 15 μg/cm² to 30 μg/cm².

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted
Min. effective
0%
Red flag below
0%

Methyl Pyrrolidone is classified as a reproductive toxicant and has been banned for use in cosmetic products within the EU since 2015. The SCCS explicitly concluded that NMP at any concentration up to 5% is not safe for consumers. Any presence in a cosmetic formula would constitute a significant safety risk, making it an ingredient to strictly avoid.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 7.7 – 8
0 7 14

Stability

This compound exhibits high chemical and thermal stability and is fully miscible with water across all temperatures. Its inherent pH typically ranges from 7.7 to 8.0.

Synergies

  • Enhances skin penetration of other active ingredients when present.

Conflicts

  • Incompatible with use in cosmetic products due to regulatory bans and safety concerns.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Max tested
0%
Pregnancy
Caution
Sensitization risk High

Methyl Pyrrolidone is classified as a reproductive toxicant (Repr. 1B) and has been prohibited in EU cosmetic products since 2015, based on the SCCS conclusion that it is unsafe at any concentration. The US EPA also identified it as posing an 'unreasonable risk' to health, specifically citing developmental post-implantation fetal loss and reduced fertility.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

No Normal
No Dry
No Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy High
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Avoid

Despite its efficacy as a penetration enhancer and solvent in other industries, Methyl Pyrrolidone is a classified reproductive toxicant and strictly prohibited in cosmetic products due to severe safety risks at any concentration.

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