What Is Poloxamine 1104?
Poloxamine 1104 is a synthetic polymer created by reacting ethylene oxide and propylene oxide with a core of ethylenediamine. The result is a block copolymer that behaves like a mild surfactant, able to sit at the border of oil and water and keep the two from separating. Because it is man-made, its composition can be tightly controlled, giving formulators a dependable ingredient with predictable performance and safety.
The material first gained attention in the 1970s when chemists were looking for gentler alternatives to traditional detergents and surfactants. Its ability to form stable emulsions without causing irritation made it an attractive option for personal care products. Over time it moved from industrial applications into mainstream beauty lines, becoming a quiet workhorse in everything from high-end skincare to mass-market body lotions.
Manufacturing starts with ethylenediamine, which is treated with propylene oxide and then ethylene oxide in a stepwise process. By adjusting the ratio of these two oxides, producers can fine-tune the balance of oil-loving and water-loving segments, tailoring the polymer for specific formulation needs. The finished material is purified and dried before being shipped as either a solid flake or a viscous liquid.
Poloxamine 1104 shows up most often in creams, lotions, serums, eye gels, sheet mask essences, makeup removers, deodorant sticks and after-sun gels. Any product that needs to hold water and oil together, stay smooth in the jar and feel light on the skin can benefit from this ingredient.
Poloxamine 1104’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In cosmetics Poloxamine 1104 serves a single yet vital role: it is an emulsifying agent. By lowering the surface tension between water and oil phases it allows formulators to blend the two into a uniform mixture that stays stable over time. This stability means creams resist separating, serums feel silky rather than greasy and actives are delivered evenly across the skin with each application. A well-built emulsion also spreads more easily, so users need less product to cover the same area which can improve the overall sensory experience and extend the shelf life of the finished formula.
Who Can Use Poloxamine 1104
Because Poloxamine 1104 is a gentle emulsifier without heavy oils or pore clogging waxes it suits most skin types including oily, dry, combination and sensitive skin. People with very reactive skin may still wish to watch for any redness since every face is different but in general the ingredient has a low irritation profile.
The polymer is made entirely in a lab from petrochemical feedstocks so it contains no animal parts or by products. This makes it suitable for both vegans and vegetarians.
Current safety data does not flag any concerns for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is used at the levels seen in finished cosmetics. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should show the full product label to their doctor just to be safe.
Poloxamine 1104 does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and will not affect the performance of your sunscreen. It also plays well with common skincare actives such as vitamin C, niacinamide and retinoids so it rarely causes formula conflicts.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Poloxamine 1104 vary from person to person. The issues listed below are only potential side effects and are unlikely for most users when the ingredient is used correctly in a well made product.
- Mild stinging or burning on very sensitive skin
- Transient redness or warmth shortly after application
- Dry or tight feeling if used in a high concentration formula without added moisturizers
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis presenting as itch or rash
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
If you notice any of the reactions above discontinue use and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0
Poloxamine 1104 is a high-molecular-weight water-soluble polymer that sits on the skin surface then rinses or rubs off easily. It lacks heavy oils or waxy residues that can block pores so it is classified as non-comedogenic. For people prone to acne or breakouts this ingredient is generally considered safe and unlikely to trigger new blemishes.
Because it functions purely as an emulsifier and is typically used at low levels it does not alter sebum production or interact with pore-lining cells in a way that would promote clogging.
Summary
Poloxamine 1104 is a lab-crafted emulsifier that keeps water and oil mixed, stabilises textures and helps active ingredients spread evenly across the skin. By lowering surface tension it produces creams and serums that feel light, absorb well and resist separating on the shelf.
While not a headline-grabbing ingredient it is a dependable workhorse found in many lotions, gels and makeup removers where it quietly improves feel and stability.
Current data shows a low risk of irritation or pore clogging making it suitable for most skin types. As with any new cosmetic it is wise to do a quick patch test to confirm personal compatibility before full use.