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Moumoujus

N-VINYL PYRROLIDONE.

Valuable CAS 88-12-0 / NOT REPORTED

N-Vinyl Pyrrolidone (NVP) serves as the fundamental monomer for Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), a widely utilized polymer in skincare formulations. While primarily a building block for PVP, NVP itself can directly function as a solubilizer, enhancing the even dispersion and delivery of active ingredients.

Summary

Solubilizing Film-forming (via polymerization to PVP) Emulsion Stabilizing (via polymerization to PVP) Viscosity Controlling (via polymerization to PVP) Hair Fixing (via polymerization to PVP)

Science

Mechanism of Action

N-Vinyl Pyrrolidone primarily contributes to formulations by polymerizing into Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP). PVP then acts as a versatile film former, creating a smooth, uniform surface on skin and hair, thereby extending product wear. Beyond polymerization, the NVP monomer itself functions as a solubilizer, assisting active ingredients such as essential oils and vitamins in mixing thoroughly within formulations for consistent delivery. PVP also serves as a viscosity controller, emulsion stabilizer, binder, and rheology modifier, with noted detoxifying, emollient, and humectant properties.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Insufficient-data confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 0.1 – 10
0 7 14

Stability

Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), which is derived from N-Vinyl Pyrrolidone, demonstrates chemical stability across a broad pH range of 0.1 to 10.0 and under typical temperature conditions. Its aqueous solutions generally exhibit a pH between 3 and 7. PVP is hygroscopic, absorbing moisture, which can lead to brittle films in high humidity; this characteristic is often addressed by utilizing vinyl acetate copolymers. In its dry form, PVP is stable and not prone to chemical reactions under standard storage conditions.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
35%
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has concluded that Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), synthesized from N-Vinyl Pyrrolidone, is safe when used in cosmetic and personal care products. Toxicity studies specifically on PVP demonstrated negative results for dermal irritation, developmental effects, and genotoxicity. The FDA has approved PVP K-30 for use in food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. Maximum use concentrations for PVP in cosmetic products can be up to 35% (e.g., in makeup fixatives). Residual N-Vinyl Pyrrolidone (NVP) monomer levels in PVP are rigorously controlled, typically below 100 ppm in Europe and often subject to even stricter internal specifications (e.g., ≤ 20 ppm).

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

N-Vinyl Pyrrolidone is a valuable ingredient, both for its direct solubilizing capabilities and its indispensable role as the monomer in creating Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), a safe and widely utilized multi-functional polymer in cosmetic science.

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