Allowed in EU

Polyvinylcaprolactam

A cosmetic ingredient used as film forming, hair fixing in skincare, haircare, and personal-care products sold in the European Union.

What is it?

2H-Azepin-2-one, 1-ethenylhexahydro-, homopolymer

What does it do?

Polyvinylcaprolactam is listed in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with the following declared functions:

  • Film forming

    forms a thin continuous film on skin, hair, or nails — used in long-wear makeup, sunscreens, and hairsprays

  • Hair fixing

    holds hair in a desired style, typically through a flexible film coating each strand

EU regulatory status

Polyvinylcaprolactam is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the European Union under Regulation 1223/2009. It is not subject to a specific Annex restriction at the time of writing.

Frequently asked questions

What is Polyvinylcaprolactam?

Polyvinylcaprolactam is a cosmetic ingredient catalogued in the EU CosIng database. 2H-Azepin-2-one, 1-ethenylhexahydro-, homopolymer

Is Polyvinylcaprolactam allowed in cosmetics in the EU?

Yes. Polyvinylcaprolactam is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the EU under Regulation 1223/2009.

What does Polyvinylcaprolactam do in cosmetic products?

Polyvinylcaprolactam is declared in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with these functions: film forming, hair fixing.

What is the CAS number of Polyvinylcaprolactam?

The CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number for Polyvinylcaprolactam is 25189-83-7.

Related ingredients

Source: EU CosIng database (European Commission). This page is derived from public-sector information published by the European Commission. · Last updated: 15/10/2010