A mild non-ionic surfactant and solubilizer. It dissolves oils and actives and cleanses skin gently. Well tolerated.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
A mild functional surfactant. Safe.
Poloxamer 188 (INCI: Poloxamer 188) is a mild non-ionic surfactant that works as a solubilizer and light cleanser. It dissolves oils and oil-soluble actives and provides gentle cleansing in gels and micellar solutions. This is a functional component, not a skincare active. Its role is technical: it solubilizes, stabilizes and cleanses gently. It handles these tasks well, but no treatment effects on the skin should be expected from it. Applied topically it has no systemic relevance, so it can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Tolerance is very good, with low irritation potential and low allergy risk. It is one of the mildest surfactants in its category, suitable for sensitive skin and for rinse-off or frequently used products. Thanks to its gentle nature it does not strip noticeably, though the final result always depends on the full surfactant system in the formula.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
SafeSuitable for
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Poloxamer 188 is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Poloxamer 188 suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
A mild non-ionic surfactant and solubilizer.
The INCI name is Poloxamer 188. It may also appear as: Полоксамер 188.
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