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POLOXAMER 284.

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

Poloxamer 284 is a versatile nonionic surfactant renowned for its amphiphilic structure, enabling effective emulsification, solubilization, and gentle cleansing across a wide range of cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications. It efficiently reduces surface tension, facilitating the integration and removal of various substances.

Summary

Surfactant Emulsifying Solubilizing Cleansing

Science

Mechanism of Action

As a triblock copolymer, Poloxamer 284 possesses a distinct amphiphilic structure, featuring a hydrophobic polyoxypropylene core flanked by two hydrophilic polyoxyethylene chains. This dual nature allows it to significantly reduce surface tension at oil-water interfaces, thereby acting as an effective emulsifier, solubilizer, and cleansing agent. It surrounds and suspends oil, dirt, and other hydrophobic substances, enabling them to mix with water for easy removal or stable dispersion within a formulation.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Insufficient-data confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

Poloxamer 284 is a functional ingredient acting as a surfactant, emulsifier, and cleanser, indicating a clear purpose in formulations rather than being added for superficial marketing claims.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 5 – 7.4
0 7 14

Stability

Aqueous solutions of Poloxamers demonstrate robust stability across acidic, alkaline, and metal ion environments. Formulators should note that these aqueous solutions can support microbial growth, necessitating appropriate preservation and storage protocols. The typical pH range for a 2.5% w/v aqueous solution is between 5.0 and 7.4.

Conflicts

  • Phenols (potential interaction for Poloxamer 188, consider for family members)
  • Parabens (potential interaction for Poloxamer 188, consider for family members)

Safety

Safety Profile

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

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has deemed Poloxamer 284, and related Poloxamers, safe for use in cosmetics. Typical product concentrations range from 0.005% to 20%. While reproductive and developmental toxicity data are not available, its molecular properties suggest negligible skin penetration. Manufacturers are advised to purify the ingredient to maintain 1,4-dioxane levels below regulatory limits. The FDA lists Poloxamers as indirect food additives, and no specific SCCS opinion for Poloxamer 284 was identified.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Poloxamer 284 is a valuable, CIR-approved nonionic surfactant offering multifunctional benefits including effective cleansing, emulsification, and solubilization, making it a versatile component for a broad spectrum of stable and skin-compatible formulations.

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