murphyPolyvinyl Alcohol
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: PVA, Poly(vinyl alcohol), PVOH
Synthetic
Occlusive
Clean
OriginPolyvinyl alcohol is synthesized from polyvinyl acetate, a petroleum-derived synthetic polymer. It is produced through hydrolysis of polyvinyl acetate using alkaline or acidic catalysts.
Ethenol, homopolymer
CAS #
9002-89-5, 25213-24-5
Form
Liquid
State
Liquid
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Functions
Film Forming
Creates a physical seal on skin to lock moisture in and keep irritants out. The "slugging" ingredient — barrier protection.
Viscosity Controlling
Creates Protective Barrier
Controls Viscosity
Anti-Aging Benefits
Antioxidant Protection
Reduces Inflammation
Creates protective layer
Controls product thickness
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
1
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not an Eye Irritant
3 studies / 3 not irritating (CIR 53)
Not a Sensitizer
3 studies / 3 not sensitizing (CIR 53)
Mixed Skin Irritation Results
7 studies / 4 irritating / 3 not irritating / reactions minimal to mild (CIR 53)
Concentration Guide
Leave-on0.1–15%
Rinse-off0.0035–14%
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · 2014 survey
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR