Poloxamer 122: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: July 1, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Poloxamer 122?

Poloxamer 122 is a synthetic ingredient made by linking together two kinds of small molecules, ethylene oxide and propylene oxide, in a specific block pattern. Chemically it sits in the poloxamer family, a group of non-ionic surfactants prized for being mild yet effective. First explored by chemists in the 1960s, poloxamers were quickly picked up by the personal care industry because they could clean the skin without causing tightness. Production starts with propylene oxide reacting to form a central block, after which ethylene oxide is added to each end, creating a soluble, flexible chain. The finished material is purified, dried and milled into a fine powder or flakes that dissolve readily in water.

Today Poloxamer 122 shows up in a wide range of rinse-off and leave-on products such as facial cleansers, micellar waters, makeup removers, shampoos, shower gels, sheet masks and lightweight moisturizers. Formulators like it because it works in clear gels and creams, remains stable across different pH levels and rinses away without residue.

Poloxamer 122’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This ingredient brings two key technical skills to a formula, both of which translate into practical benefits for the user.

  • Cleansing: Its surfactant nature lowers the surface tension of water so oils, dirt and makeup lift off the skin or hair and rinse away easily. Because it is non-ionic it tends to be less irritating than many traditional detergents, making it suitable for sensitive skin and daily use.
  • Emulsifying: Poloxamer 122 helps blend oil-based ingredients with water, keeping lotions, gels and serums smooth and uniform. This improves texture, prevents separation and can even boost the delivery of active ingredients by ensuring they are evenly dispersed.

Who Can Use Poloxamer 122

Thanks to its mild non-ionic nature Poloxamer 122 tends to suit nearly every skin type, including oily, dry, combination, sensitive and even skin prone to breakouts. It cleans without stripping and does not clog pores, so few people need to avoid it. Those with very compromised or eczema-flared skin might still prefer an ultra-gentle cleanser with added lipids, but Poloxamer 122 itself is not known to worsen such conditions.

The ingredient is fully synthetic and made from petrochemical feedstocks, not animals, so it is considered vegan and vegetarian friendly. It also fits into most cruelty-free standards, although final product testing policies vary by brand.

Current safety data show no issues for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding because the molecule is large and unlikely to penetrate deeply. That said this is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should run any skincare product past a physician to be on the safe side.

Poloxamer 122 is not photosensitising, meaning it will not make skin more sensitive to sunlight. It is also odourless, so it usually does not interfere with fragrance-free formulas aimed at reactive skin.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Poloxamer 122 differ from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects yet most users will never experience them when the ingredient is used correctly in a well-formulated product.

  • Transient stinging or redness in individuals with highly sensitive or broken skin
  • Mild dryness or tightness if used in very high concentrations or in formulas lacking moisturising agents
  • Rare allergic contact dermatitis presenting as itch or rash
  • Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes during cleansing

If any discomfort or visible reaction occurs stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5. Poloxamer 122 is completely water soluble and leaves no oily or waxy residue on the skin. It rinses off cleanly and does not form a film that could trap dead cells or sebum in pores, which is why it earns the lowest possible comedogenic score. Because of this, it is considered suitable for people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts. In rinse-off cleansers any fleeting contact with the skin further reduces the risk of clogged pores, while in leave-on products its lightweight nature still keeps it breakout-friendly.

Summary

Poloxamer 122 acts as a gentle cleanser and an effective emulsifier. Its block-structured surfactant chain lifts dirt, oil and makeup while also helping water and oil ingredients stay evenly mixed, giving formulas a smooth stable feel. Although not talked about as often as classic surfactants like sodium lauryl sulfate, it enjoys steady use in micellar waters, makeup removers and mild facial cleansers because formulators appreciate its skin-friendly profile. Safety reviews show it to be low risk for irritation, allergy or pore clogging, so most people can use it with confidence. As with any new skincare product, doing a quick patch test is a sensible step before full-face application.

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