CIR Safety Review: Clinical studies did not indicate that Polyvinyl Alcohol caused irritation. In an repeat insult patch test, Polyvinyl Alcohol had a low incidence of irritation during induction and no evidence of sensitization upon challenge. Further, a cumulative irritation study reported a low irritation. The CIR Expert Panel felt that the ingredient does not present a reproductive or developmental toxicity risk. No ocular irritation was noted from undiluted Polyvinyl Alcohol. Based on the available information, the CIR Expert Panel concluded that Polyvinyl Alcohol was safe as used in cosmetic formulations.

FDA: Link to Code of Federal Regulations for Polyvinyl Alcohol
http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfcfr/CFRS...
http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfcfr/CFRS...

Polyvinyl Alcohol may be used in cosmetics and personal care products marketed in Europe according to the general provisions of the Cosmetics Directive of the European Union.
Link to the EU Cosmetics Directive: http://ec.europa.eu/consumers/sectors/cosmetics/documents/di...

The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives has established an Acceptable Daily Intake of 50 mg/kg body weight for Polyvinyl Alcohol.
http://www.inchem.org/documents/jecfa/jecmono/v52je09.htm

Polyvinyl Alcohol is a water soluble synthetic polymer. In addition to being used in cosmetics and personal care products, it is used as a carbon dioxide barrier in polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles.