Poloxamer 185

Poloxamer 185 molecular structure
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Pluronic 185
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Not Clean
OriginSynthesized from propylene oxide and ethylene oxide polymers derived from petroleum-based feedstocks. Produced through polymerization reactions that link polyoxyethylene and polyoxypropylene blocks into a block copolymer structure.
Oxirane, methyl-, polymer with oxirane (19;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.
Surfactant Cleansing
Surfactant Emulsifying
Anti-Inflammatory
Antimicrobial
Strengthens Barrier
Lifts away dirt and oil
Mixes oil and water
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed1 review →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
3 studies / 3 not sensitizing (CIR 366)
Not a Skin Irritant
1 study / 1 not irritating (CIR 366)
Regulatory Status
USA✔ permitted
EU⚠ restricted
JAPAN⚠ restricted
CANADA⚠ restricted
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR