Polyepsilon-Lysine
A preservative from the amino acid lysine. It gently limits bacterial growth and helps extend shelf life without harsh preservatives. Well tolerated.
Supporting ingredient
It gives a product its texture, stability or shelf life. It has no claimed effect on the skin, so an efficacy tier does not apply. What is known about its safety is below
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Polyepsilon-lysine (INCI: Polyepsilon-Lysine) is a preservative derived from the amino acid lysine, produced by fermentation. In formulas it slows bacterial growth and helps extend shelf life without harsher preservatives. This is a functional ingredient. Its job is to protect the formula, not to care for the skin; without a good preservative system a water-based product spoils and becomes unsafe. It fits formulas that aim for a gentler preservation profile. Topically there is no meaningful systemic exposure, so it can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Tolerance is good: irritation and allergy risk are both low. As an amino-acid-based preservative it tends to be a comfortable option even for sensitive skin, where it causes fewer problems than some classic preservatives.
Frequently asked questions
Is Polyepsilon-Lysine safe during pregnancy?
Polyepsilon-Lysine is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Polyepsilon-Lysine for?
Polyepsilon-Lysine suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Polyepsilon-Lysine and what does it do in cosmetics?
A preservative from the amino acid lysine.
What's the INCI name for Polyepsilon-Lysine?
The INCI name is Polyepsilon-Lysine. It may also appear as: Polylysine.
See Polyepsilon-Lysine in a product composition right on the store page
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.
Similar role in the formula
Other functional ingredients
Polyester-8, Polyethylene, Polyglyceryl-10 Behenate/Eicosadioate, Polyglyceryl-10 Dioleate, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Aminomethyl Propanediol, Coco-Betaine, Lauroyl Lysine
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