Poloxamer 188

AKA: Pluronic F68

Synthetic

Cleanser

Emulsifier

Clean

OriginSynthesized from ethylene oxide and propylene oxide, polymers derived from petroleum hydrocarbons. Produced through block copolymerization of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide monomers via catalytic synthesis.

Oxirane, methyl-, polymer with oxirane (75;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

Antioxidant Protection

Locks In Moisture

Reduces Inflammation

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

CIR

Safe as used

Pregnancy

Yes

CIR Safety Findings

Not a Skin Irritant

2 studies / 2 not irritating (CIR 366)

Not a Sensitizer

2 studies / 2 not sensitizing (CIR 366)

Regulatory Status

USA✔ permitted

EU⚠ restricted

JAPAN⚠ restricted

CANADA⚠ restricted

Regulatory Agencies

EWG CIR FDA EU COSING Health Canada

Verified Jun 2026

Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR