Poloxamer 401

AKA: Pluronic 401, Polyoxypropylene Polyoxyethylene Block Copolymer
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Not Clean
OriginPoloxamer 401 belongs to the nonionic surfactant family, synthesized from ethylene oxide and propylene oxide polymers. It is produced through the polymerization of ethylene oxide onto a polypropylene glycol backbone.
Oxirane, methyl-, polymer with oxirane (6;67)
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-reviewednone on file
⚖️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
Regulatory Status
USA✔ permitted
EU⚠ restricted
JAPAN⚠ restricted
CANADA⚠ restricted
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR