Poloxamer 184

Poloxamer 184 is a nonionic PEG-PPG-PEG block copolymer surfactant. Cleansers and makeup removers use it to solubilize oils, lower surface tension, and support gentle, rinse-off cleansing without harshness.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
A gentle surfactant that dissolves oil and makeup without stripping skin.
Category
Cleansing, Emulsifying
Type
Surfactant

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Great

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Lifts sunscreen, sebum, and makeup while feeling non-stripping on skin. Helps reduce reliance on harsher surfactants for a soft, comfortable after-rinse feel.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Common in micellar gels, eye-makeup remover solutions, and gentle foaming face washes for daily routines.

Comedogenic Rating

This ingredient is not typically evaluated for comedogenicity, and no standardized rating is available.

Safety

Generally low-irritation in rinse-off and micellar formats, including around the eyes. Very high concentrations or prolonged contact may cause transient dryness in sensitive skin.

Is Poloxamer 184 a Good Ingredient?

It's a well-studied nonionic surfactant that provides effective yet mild cleansing with strong formulation stability and typically low irritation, which is what earns it a Great rating for micellar and eye-area products.

Products with Poloxamer 184

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