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PEG-136 POLYVINYL ALCOHOL.

Valuable CAS - / ANTICAKING

PEG-136 Polyvinyl Alcohol is a versatile synthetic polymer that forms a breathable film on the skin, aiding in active ingredient delivery and moisture retention. It also functions as a sophisticated textural enhancer, improving product consistency and spreadability for optimal application.

Summary

Film-former Thickening agent Stabilizing agent Humectant Delivery enhancer Binding agent Softening agent Fixative Emulsifying agent

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient operates primarily as a film-former, creating an invisible, protective matrix on the skin's surface. This barrier is crucial for enhancing the retention and optimizing the absorption of active ingredients, particularly effective in targeted delivery systems like masks and patches. Furthermore, its polyethylene glycol (PEG) component acts as a humectant, drawing moisture to the skin, and a consistency enhancer, contributing to smooth product application. The polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) segment provides adhesive and emulsifying properties, which further stabilize formulations and ensure uniform distribution of ingredients.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Clinical evaluations of the polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) component, as assessed by the CIR Expert Panel, consistently reported no irritation in standard studies, a low incidence of irritation in repeat insult patch tests, and no sensitization.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 5 – 8
0 7 14

Stability

Polyvinyl Alcohol solutions demonstrate general stability under normal conditions, with optimal pH values typically ranging from 5.0 to 8.0 for a 20% solution of the graft co-polymer. The dissolution profile of PVA itself is not significantly affected by pH over a broad range, ensuring robust formulation integrity.

Conflicts

  • strong acids
  • strong bases
  • oxidizing agents

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel concluded Polyvinyl Alcohol to be safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products, having superseded a tentative 13% concentration limit with a 'safe as used' determination. While PEG-136 POLYVINYL ALCOHOL itself lacks a specific SCCS status, its component, polyvinyl alcohol-polyethylene glycol-graft-co-polymer, has been evaluated as a food additive by JECFA. It is generally considered safe for topical application, though individuals with highly sensitive skin should perform a patch test. The EWG states that EWG VERIFIED products require adequate substantiation to include this ingredient.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
No Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

PEG-136 Polyvinyl Alcohol is a valuable film-forming and texture-enhancing ingredient, well-suited for formulations requiring enhanced ingredient delivery and stable product consistency, with a low irritancy profile.

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