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POLOXAMER 122.

Valuable CAS 9003-11-6 / SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

Poloxamer 122 is an amphiphilic triblock copolymer renowned for its exceptional surfactant capabilities. It efficiently reduces surface tension, facilitating the solubilization and removal of oils and impurities, establishing it as a critical ingredient in advanced cleansing and solubilizing formulations.

Emulsifying Surfactant Cleansing Solubilizer

Science

Composed of a hydrophobic polyoxypropylene core flanked by two hydrophilic polyoxyethylene chains, Poloxamer 122 functions as a highly effective non-ionic surfactant. This amphiphilic structure enables it to significantly reduce surface tension at the oil-water interface, promoting the emulsification of immiscible substances like oil and water. By enhancing the water solubility of hydrophobic compounds and improving the miscibility of diverse substances, it effectively lifts and disperses impurities, allowing for their easy rinsing from the skin while stabilizing product formulations.


Research

Medium confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Demonstrated antimicrobial activity, inhibiting 56% of Mycobacterium avium complex.
  2. 02 Clinical tests of dermal irritation and sensitization for Poloxamers, including Poloxamer 122, were uniformly negative.

Transparency

Not commonly dusted

The provided research does not indicate that Poloxamer 122 is associated with 'dusting' or persistent residue on the skin.


The Formula

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Poloxamers are known for their ability to form thermoreversible hydrogels, with their physicochemical properties, including solubilization capacity, viscosity, and long-term stability, being influenced by specific processing routes. The stability of thermosensitive systems formulated with Poloxamer 122 can be enhanced through the co-formulation with other polymers such as HPMC, sodium alginate, and polyethylene glycols.

Synergies

  • Co-formulation with HPMC, sodium alginate, and polyethylene glycols can improve the stability of thermosensitive systems.

Conflicts

  • Competitive hydrogen bonding with other surfactants may reduce its solubilizing efficacy.
  • High concentrations (1.5% and above) in tablet formulations may impede dissolution, potentially acting as a binder or augmenting existing binding agents.

Safety

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
20%
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel concluded that Poloxamers, including Poloxamer 122, are safe for cosmetic use up to a maximum concentration of 20%. While specific reproductive and developmental toxicity data were not available, the panel anticipated minimal skin penetration based on its molecular weight and solubility. The CIR Expert Panel emphasized the critical importance of purification processes to ensure that impurities such as ethylene oxide, propylene oxide, and 1,4-dioxane remain below established safety limits. Poloxamers are also approved by the US FDA for various pharmaceutical applications.


Your Skin

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

Our Assessment

Valuable

Poloxamer 122 is a valuable and versatile surfactant, widely recognized for its effective cleansing and solubilizing properties across all skin types with a low risk of irritation, rendering it suitable for numerous cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications.


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