Poloxamer 188: 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
Share:
Inside this article:

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 188?

Poloxamer 188 is a type of synthetic polymer made by linking together two safe building blocks called ethylene oxide and propylene oxide. The result is a wax-free, water-soluble substance that behaves like a mild surfactant. It was first explored in the 1970s when chemists searched for gentle cleansers that would not strip the skin. Because it is nonionic, it carries no electrical charge, which helps it stay kind to skin and eyes.

To make Poloxamer 188, manufacturers start with propylene oxide, add ethylene oxide in controlled steps, then refine the blend to reach a set molecular weight. The finished powder or clear liquid dissolves easily in water and keeps a stable texture over a wide range of temperatures.

You will see Poloxamer 188 in micellar waters, rinse-off facial cleansers, makeup removers, baby wipes, sheet masks, light moisturizers and soothing after-sun gels. Brands like it because it helps formulas feel weightless, rinse clean and stay mixed without shaking.

Poloxamer 188’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This ingredient pulls double duty in many personal care formulas.

  • Cleansing: Its mild surfactant action lifts away dirt, oil and makeup while causing less stinging or dryness than stronger detergents. This makes it ideal for sensitive-skin products and no-rub eye makeup removers.
  • Emulsifying: Poloxamer 188 helps oil and water stay blended so creams, gels or liquids keep a smooth even texture during storage and use. This stability cuts down on product separation and improves the feel on skin.

Who Can Use Poloxamer 188

Poloxamer 188 is considered gentle enough for dry, normal, oily and sensitive skin because it cleanses without stripping and has a low risk of irritation. There are no known skin types that must avoid it unless an individual has a specific allergy to the ingredient.

The polymer is fully synthetic and is not sourced from animals, so it is suitable for both vegans and vegetarians.

Current safety data show no issues for pregnant or breastfeeding women when Poloxamer 188 is used topically in cosmetic amounts. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should confirm product choices with a healthcare professional.

The ingredient does not increase photosensitivity and will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It is also fragrance free and nonvolatile, which keeps the risk of stinging or vapor related eye irritation very low.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Side effects from topical Poloxamer 188 vary by person. The points below list potential reactions only and most users will not experience them when the ingredient is used in a well-formulated product.

  • Mild transient redness or stinging in very sensitive skin
  • Rare allergic contact dermatitis presenting as itching or rash
  • Temporary eye irritation if the product is accidentally rubbed into the eyes
  • Dry feeling in users who are already prone to dehydration if the formula lacks added moisturizers

If any of these effects occur stop using the product and seek medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 (non-comedogenic)

Poloxamer 188 is fully water-soluble and leaves no oily film on skin so it does not clog pores. It rinses away cleanly and does not mix with skin sebum in a way that would block follicles. For this reason it is considered safe for those who are prone to acne or breakouts. Only the overall formula could change that outcome for better or worse.

Summary

Poloxamer 188 works as a mild cleanser and as an emulsifier that keeps oil and water blended. It does these jobs by sitting at the border between water and oil which lets it lift grime yet feel gentle on skin. The ingredient is fairly common in micellar waters facial washes baby wipes and light gels though it is not a headline act like hyaluronic acid or niacinamide.

Safety data and decades of use show that Poloxamer 188 is low-risk for irritation allergy and pore clogging. Still skin can behave in its own way so it is smart to patch test any new product that contains it.

Was this article helpful?
More from Glooshi:
ADVERTISEMENT
Get all our top headlines in beauty.
Delivered right to your inbox each week. Zero spam, all goodness, opt-out at anytime.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Get the latest beauty news, top product recommendations & brand-exclusive discount codes direct to your inbox.
Send good feedback:

All feedback is greatly appreciated, anonymous, and will be used to improve the quality of our articles.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Send bad feedback:

All feedback is greatly appreciated, anonymous, and will be used to improve the quality of our articles.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Search