• Water-soluble polymer for strong film formation
• Enhances hold in hair gels, sprays, and styling formulas
• Used in peel-off masks and binding powders
• Compatible with a wide pH range and cosmetic actives
• Improves spreadability, texture, and viscosity

PVP-K30 (Polyvinylpyrrolidone) – Film-Former & Binder for Hair & Skin Formulas

PVP-K30 (Polyvinylpyrrolidone) is a high-purity, water-soluble polymer used across cosmetics as a film-forming agent, thickener, and fixative. It offers excellent holding power in hair gels and sprays, and creates smooth, elastic films in peel-off masks and makeup products. Its ability to bind powders, stabilize emulsions, and enhance formulation aesthetics makes it a staple in both skincare and haircare. PVP-K30 is known for its clarity, low odor, and compatibility with a wide pH range.

INCI Name: PVP (Polyvinylpyrrolidone)

CAS Number: 9003-39-8

Solubility: Soluble in water, ethanol

Add Phase: Water phase

pH Stability: 3.0 – 9.0

Processing Temperature: Stable up to 80°C

Appearance: White to off-white powder

Odor: Odorless

Molecular Formula: (C6H9NO)n

Molecular Weight: ~40,000 g/mol (for K30)

Flash Point: Not applicable

Density: ~1.2 g/cm³

Chemical Type: Synthetic polymer

Functional Groups: Lactam ring

Primary Cosmetic Uses: Hair gels, styling sprays, peel-off masks, mascara, powders

• Usage Rate: 0.5% – 5%
• Phase: Add to water phase; stir to dissolve completely
• Ideal For: Hair Gels, Styling Sprays, Peel-Off Masks, Mascaras, Compact Powders

🧴 For strong and flexible film formation, combine PVP-K30 with plasticizers like propylene glycol or panthenol. Use a chelating agent (EDTA) for enhanced clarity and stability in water-based gels and sprays.

✔️ Suitable for all skin types

✔️ Non-irritating and hypoallergenic at standard use levels

✔️ Use caution in dry skin if film formation causes tightness

1. Strong-Hold Hair Gel

Use 2–5% PVP-K30 with glycerin and panthenol for flexible hold and shine.

2. Peel-Off Charcoal Mask

Blend 3% with activated charcoal and kaolin for a smooth peel-off texture.

3. Setting Spray or Fixing Mist

Use 0.5–1% PVP-K30 for light hold and improved makeup longevity.

4. Pressed Powder Binder

Incorporate 1–2% in compact powders to improve binding and wear.

5. Clear Mascara Base

Formulate 3% with Aloe Vera gel and preservative to create a natural lash styler.

Serums
⭐☆☆☆☆ – Poor
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Not ideal for leave-on transparent formulas.



Creams & Lotions
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜ – May be used as a viscosity adjuster or film former.



Toners
⭐☆☆☆☆ – Poor
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Limited value in watery systems.



Face Masks
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Excellent
🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩 – Creates elastic film in peel-off masks.



Cleansers
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜ – Used in gel or hybrid cleansing bases.



Hair Masks
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜ – Enhances shine and hold post-wash.



Deodorants
⭐☆☆☆☆ – Poor
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Not common in deodorizing systems.



Eye Creams
⭐☆☆☆☆ – Poor
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Avoid for delicate eye area due to film-forming.



Shampoos
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜ – May add texture in gel shampoo bases.



Soaps
⭐☆☆☆☆ – Poor
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Not stable in high-pH saponified formulas.



Conditioners
⭐⭐⭐☆☆ – Moderate
🟧🟧🟧⬜⬜ – Can aid in film-forming and detangling.



Lip Balms
⭐☆☆☆☆ – Poor
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Not used in anhydrous lip products.



Body Butters
⭐☆☆☆☆ – Poor
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Not suitable for oil-based systems.



Ointments
⭐☆☆☆☆ – Poor
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Incompatible with greasy ointments.

Q1: Is PVP-K30 natural?

A1: No — it is synthetically derived, but safe and commonly used in cosmetics.

Q2: Can I use it in leave-on facial serums?

A2: It’s not recommended due to potential film formation and tackiness.

Q3: Does it provide hold in hair styling?

A3: Yes — it’s a classic fixative for hair gels and styling products.

Q4: What’s the difference between K30 and K90?

A4: K30 is medium molecular weight, suitable for thin gels. K90 is heavier and used for high-viscosity systems.

Q5: Is it compatible with essential oils or actives?

A5: Yes — but ensure they’re emulsified properly for clear systems.