Polyvinyl Alcohol

Science & Benefits

Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) is a synthetic, water-soluble polymer used primarily in peel-off masks and film-forming serums. As the water evaporates, PVA creates a flexible, transparent, and slightly occlusive film on the skin's surface. This film prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and facilitates the 'pushing' of other active ingredients into the epidermis. It is entirely non-comedogenic (rating 0). However, users with active inflammatory acne should exercise caution; while the molecule is safe, the physical 'peel' required to remove the dried film can cause mechanical trauma to delicate, inflamed lesions.