PVP — Allergy Risk & Safety Profile
INCI: PVP
Key Facts
- CAS Number
- 9003-39-8
- Category
- film former
- Risk Level
- low
- Common Allergen
- No
- Found In
- hairspray, styling gel, mascara
Is PVP safe in cosmetics?
PVP is rated low risk in cosmetic products. It is not classified as a common allergen and is generally well-tolerated by most skin types. Commonly found in hairspray, styling gel, mascara.
What is PVP?
PVP is a film_former commonly used in cosmetic and personal care products. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics at recommended concentrations.
Allergy & Safety Information
PVP is considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations.
This ingredient is considered low risk from an allergenicity perspective. Reactions are uncommon at typical cosmetic use concentrations. However, no ingredient is universally safe — if you notice redness, itching, or irritation after using a product containing this ingredient, discontinue use and monitor whether symptoms resolve.
How to Identify PVP in Products
Cosmetic ingredients are listed by their INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients) name in descending order of concentration. To check whether a product contains PVP, scan the ingredient list for its INCI name exactly as it appears above. Ingredients present at 1% or less may appear in any order after the 1% threshold.
Product types to prioritise checking: Hairspray, Styling gel, Mascara. These product categories are the most common sources of PVP exposure based on formulation data.
Not sure if your products contain PVP? Paste the ingredient list into the free ingredient checker to scan for PVP and other allergens automatically.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PVP safe for sensitive skin?
PVP is generally well-tolerated, even by sensitive skin.
What products contain PVP?
PVP is commonly found in hairspray, styling gel, mascara.
What does PVP do in cosmetics?
PVP functions as a film_former in formulations.
Related Guides
Is PVP causing YOUR skin reactions?
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