Poloxamer 338 is a nonionic block copolymer (polyethylene-polypropylene glycol) used in cosmetics and skincare primarily as a surfactant, emulsifier, and solubilizing agent to disperse oils and other poorly soluble ingredients in aqueous formulations. It also serves as a mild cleansing and viscosity-modifying component.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Mild skin irritation | Rare | Occasional transient redness or stinging, generally at higher concentrations or on compromised skin. |
Eye irritation | Uncommon | Possible stinging or irritation on direct contact, relevant for cleansers and rinse-off products. |
Allergic contact dermatitis | Very rare | Poloxamers are considered low-sensitizing; isolated hypersensitivity reactions reported infrequently. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.