PVP (Polyvinylpyrrolidone)

pee-vee-PEE (pol-ee-VY-nul-peer-OL-ih-done)

INCI: PVP

Film Former 7/10 Safety CG ApprovedClean Synthetic Vegan

What Is PVP (Polyvinylpyrrolidone)?

A water-soluble synthetic polymer used as a film former and styling agent. It provides light, flexible hold and is one of the oldest synthetic styling ingredients still in use.

Source: Synthetic polymer

Origin: Synthetic

Also known as: Polyvinylpyrrolidone, Povidone

What Does PVP (Polyvinylpyrrolidone) Do to Your Hair?

Forms a transparent, water-soluble film on hair that provides light to moderate hold. Adds body and volume to fine hair. Can be easily washed out with water or gentle shampoo.

Best For

Fine hair, thin hair, volume-seeking, all hair types

Not Recommended For

Dry hair (can feel crispy), curly hair wanting soft definition

Concentration Matters

1-5% in styling products

Hair Type Compatibility

1A Straight Fine
1B Straight Medium
1C Straight Coarse
2A Wavy Fine
2B Wavy Medium
2C Wavy Coarse
3A Curly Loose
3B Curly Tight
3C Curly Corkscrew
4A Coily S-Shaped
4B Coily Z-Shaped
4C Coily Tight

Method Compatibility

Curly Girl (CG) Method: Approved
CG Approved

Safety & Regulation

7/10
AvoidCautionSafe

Very safe for cosmetic use with decades of safety data. Water-soluble so does not build up. Can feel stiff or crispy if over-applied. Non-toxic and non-irritating.

FDA Status: Generally Recognized As Safe

FDA considers PVP safe for cosmetic use. Also used in pharmaceutical applications.

EWG Score: 1/10

HairAide Verdict

A safe, water-soluble styling polymer. It washes out easily and does not build up, making it CG-approved. Best for light hold and volume. Can feel stiff at higher concentrations.

Products That Contain PVP (Polyvinylpyrrolidone)

Mousses, volumizing sprays, light-hold gels, setting lotions

Alternatives to PVP (Polyvinylpyrrolidone)

If you want to avoid PVP (Polyvinylpyrrolidone), look for products with these ingredients instead:

VP/VA Copolymer, Polyquaternium-11, flaxseed gel

Frequently Asked Questions

Is PVP (Polyvinylpyrrolidone) safe for hair?

Yes, PVP (Polyvinylpyrrolidone) has a safety rating of 7/10 and is generally considered safe for use in hair products. Very safe for cosmetic use with decades of safety data. Water-soluble so does not build up. Can feel stiff or crispy if over-applied. Non-toxic and non-irritating.

Is PVP (Polyvinylpyrrolidone) bad for curly hair?

PVP (Polyvinylpyrrolidone) is CG-method approved and is generally considered safe for curly hair.

Is PVP (Polyvinylpyrrolidone) CG-method approved?

Yes, PVP (Polyvinylpyrrolidone) is approved for the Curly Girl method.

What can I use instead of PVP (Polyvinylpyrrolidone)?

Some alternatives to PVP (Polyvinylpyrrolidone) include: VP/VA Copolymer, Polyquaternium-11, flaxseed gel

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