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PEI-15.

Valuable CAS 9002-98-6 / VISCOSITY CONTROLLING

PEI-15 (Polyethyleneimine) is a highly cationic polymer known for its strong affinity for negatively charged surfaces, including skin proteins. It functions as a versatile film-forming and conditioning agent, contributing to skin moisturization and the stabilization of active ingredients.

Summary

Film-forming Agent Skin Conditioning Agent Moisturizer Antibacterial Agent Stabilizer Odor Neutralizer

Science

Mechanism of Action

As a branched polycationic polymer, PEI-15 features numerous primary, secondary, and tertiary amine groups, imparting a robust positive charge. This inherent cationicity allows it to effectively bind to negatively charged skin proteins and other biomolecules, forming a protective and conditioning film. This interaction enhances skin moisturization, aids in the adhesion and stabilization of other cosmetic ingredients, and helps neutralize anionic substances. Furthermore, PEI-15 exhibits intrinsic antibacterial properties.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Demonstrates antibacterial efficacy against common skin bacteria, with a Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) of 16 ppm for Staphylococcus aureus and 31 ppm for Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
  2. 02 Provides significant film-forming and conditioning benefits for skin, contributing to moisturization and enhancing the adhesion and stability of medicinal ingredients by interacting with skin proteins.
  3. 03 In hair care, Polyethyleneimine (PEI-1500, often as PEI-Care™) at concentrations of 0.05-0.5% exhibits strong cationic bonding, altering hair's zeta potential from -19.5mV (untreated) to +16.5mV (treated). These effects support cuticle repair on damaged hair, enhance post-washing protection, and improve dye retention while reducing color fading.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

No data available in the research suggests that PEI-15 commonly leads to visible dusting or residue when formulated for skincare applications.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 3 – 10
0 7 14

Stability

Polyethyleneimine (PEI-1500) demonstrates stability across a wide pH range of 3 to 10. It is best stored at room temperature, protected from direct sunlight or heat, and formulations should avoid temperatures exceeding 80°C to maintain integrity.

Conflicts

  • citric acid
  • epoxy compounds
  • isocyanate compounds
  • acidic gases

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Sensitization risk Low

While a specific Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) for Polyethyleneimine is not available, the EPA has granted an exemption from tolerance for polyethyleneimine (number average MW 1,300 daltons) as an inert pesticide ingredient, noting it is poorly absorbed through intact skin and meets criteria for a low-risk polymer. The FDA also lists it as an indirect food additive. Although high concentrations can induce cytotoxicity in laboratory settings by disrupting cell membranes, this effect is generally not observed with cosmetic use at appropriate concentrations, and some formulations exhibit low cytotoxicity even at higher levels. Compatible with sensitive skin types.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

PEI-15 is a valuable polycationic polymer for precision skincare, offering robust film-forming, conditioning, and antibacterial properties, particularly beneficial for sensitive skin, though further dedicated research is warranted to establish optimal concentrations for specific skin benefits.

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