Poloxamer 184

AKA: Pluronic 184
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Not Clean
OriginPoloxamer 184 is a synthetic nonionic surfactant derived from ethylene oxide and propylene oxide polymers. It is synthesized through the polymerization of ethylene oxide onto a polypropylene glycol backbone.
Oxirane, methyl-, polymer with oxirane (13;30)
CAS #
9003-11-6
Form
Liquid
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Functions
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Cleansing Surfactant
Emulsifier
Fights Bacteria
Reduces Inflammation
Locks In Moisture
Removes Impurities
Mixes Oil & Water
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed2 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
EWG
3
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
1 study / 1 not sensitizing (CIR 366)
Mixed Skin Irritation Results
3 studies / 2 irritating / 1 not irritating / reactions slight (CIR 366)
Regulatory Status
USA✔ permitted
EU⚠ restricted
JAPAN⚠ restricted
CANADA⚠ restricted
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR