PVP
What is it?
PVP, also called povidone or polyvinylpyrrolidone, is a faint yellow solid. In cosmetics and personal care products, PVP is used in the formulation of a wide range of product types including mascara, eyeliner, hair conditioners, hair sprays, shampoos and other hair care products.
Safety Information
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reviewed the safety of PVP and approved its use as a clarifying agent in beer, wine, and vinegar, and as an adjuvant in coatings on fresh citrus fruits.
The safety of PVP has been assessed by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR)Expert Panel. The CIR Expert Panel evaluated the scientific data and concluded that PVP (polyvinyl pyrrolidone) was safe as used in cosmetics and personal care products.
The safety of PVP has been assessed by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR)Expert Panel. The CIR Expert Panel evaluated the scientific data and concluded that PVP (polyvinyl pyrrolidone) was safe as used in cosmetics and personal care products.
Why is it used in cosmetics and personal care products?
PVP helps to distribute or to suspend an insoluble solid in a liquid and keeps emulsions from separating into their oil and liquid components. It also holds together the ingredients of a compressed tablet or cake. PVP dries to form a thin coating on the skin, hair or nails. When used in hair care products, PVP helps hair hold its style by inhibiting the hair’s ability to absorb moisture.
Scientific facts:
PVP is a polymer. The molecular weight of PVP varies (from 10,000 to 700,000) depending on the length of the polymer chain. PVP with an average molecular weight of 40,000 is typically used in cosmetics and personal care products. Many noncosmetic uses of PVP have been reported, including its use as a food additive and as an antiseptic when it is combined with iodine.
