Why is PVP used in cosmetics and what is its safety?

Does the cosmetic product you are using now contain the ingredient PVP?

PVP is used in a variety of cosmetics such as face creams and foundations. It is often used to enhance the functionality of cosmetics.

However, many people may not know what ingredients it contains and what functions it has.

In this article, we will explain what PVP is made from, as well as its safety and functionality.
This is evidence-based information based on a report by the US CIR, a global cosmetics ingredient evaluation organization. Please use it as a reference when selecting cosmetics.

What is PVP?

The official name of PVP is "polyvinylpyrrolidone."

It is a chemically synthesized polymer compound that was first developed in the 1940s. It was originally developed for medical use, but it has since been used in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals as well.

Why is PVP used in cosmetics?

PVP is highly functional and is highly valued in cosmetics. However, it may be hard to imagine what the "function of cosmetics" is.

Film formation

Improved adhesion

PVP increases the adhesiveness of cosmetics when mixed with other ingredients, resulting in a smoother application and a better feel when used.

Disperse the ingredients

It can be mixed with other cosmetic ingredients without bias.
If the active ingredients in a lotion or cream settle, the concentration and effectiveness will vary, but adding PVP makes it easier to disperse the ingredients evenly and keep them in that state.

Keep moisture from escaping

The film that PVP creates on the skin surface prevents moisture from evaporating, which helps keep the skin hydrated even after application.

Related article: What is Polyacrylate-13 in Cosmetics?

Is PVP safe?

The safety of PVP has been thoroughly examined by the US Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR). The CIR report objectively evaluates the safety of PVP and states whether it is an ingredient that consumers can use with confidence.

The report states that at typical usage levels, PVP has very low skin irritation and toxicity.
No allergic reactions or adverse effects have been found in animal or human tests, and it has been concluded that it is safe to use in the concentrations currently used in many cosmetic products.

However, if extremely high concentrations of PVP are used, mild irritation may occur, so it is important to adjust the concentration.

What are the effects on the skin?

PVP is generally considered a safe ingredient that is gentle on the skin .

However, because it forms a film on the skin that remains for a long time, people with sensitive skin or allergies may feel discomfort. In such cases, be sure to cleanse thoroughly so that no PVP-containing cosmetics remain on the skin.

Environmental impact of PVP

PVP, a synthetic polymer , has been noted to have low biodegradability in the natural environment, meaning that it is difficult for natural microorganisms to break it down and may remain in the environment for a long time.

In addition, PVP is a synthetic polymer that dissolves easily in water, so there is a high possibility that it will end up in rivers or oceans after being discharged from bathtubs or sinks.
It is possible that remaining in the water for a long time could have some effect on aquatic life.

However, at present, there is no clear evidence that it is directly harmful to fish or aquatic life.

An Earth-Friendly Alternative to PVP

The amount of PVP contained in cosmetics is usually very small, so some people may say, "Cosmetics can't possibly pollute the ocean that much."

However, since it is used in cosmetics all over the world, when we consider the amount of consumption and accumulation on a global scale, it cannot be said that there is no burden on the environment.

In fact, due to such environmental concerns, research is underway into alternatives to PVP.

For example, biodegradable polymers and naturally derived ingredients are attracting attention. They are expected to be sustainable options because they decompose easily in the natural environment and return to nature.

summary

PVP is an ingredient used in many cosmetics and is considered a safe ingredient that enhances usability and functionality.

However, it cannot be said that it is necessarily environmentally friendly.

"The more cosmetics we use, the dirtier the earth becomes."

To prevent this situation from getting worse, it may be a good idea to choose cosmetics that are as environmentally friendly as possible .