Specifications
| INCI name | PVP |
|---|---|
| Chemical name | Polyvinylpyrrolidone |
| Synonyms | Povidone K90, Polyvinylpyrrolidone K90, PVP K-90, PVPK 90, PVPK90 |
| CAS number | 9003-39-8 |
| Grade | Cosmetic / Pharma |
| Appearance | White to off-white free-flowing hygroscopic powder |
| Assay | ≥ 99% |
| pH | 3.0 - 7.0 (5% solution) |
| Solubility | Soluble in water and in ethanol |
| Typical use level | 1 - 5% |
| Packing | 25 kg fiber drum |
| Minimum order | 25 kg |
| Origin | India / China |
| Shelf life | 24 months from date of manufacture |
Storage. Highly hygroscopic. Store in tightly closed containers in a cool, dry place and reseal immediately after use.
About this ingredient
The K value indicates molecular weight — K90 is the high end of the range, giving stronger hold and higher solution viscosity than K30. It forms a clear, hard, glossy film that is fully water redispersible, which is what allows a styling product to be washed out easily. Because the film is water sensitive it is often blended with VP/VA copolymer where humidity resistance matters.
Benefits
- Strong hold with a clear, glossy film
- Fully water redispersible — washes out easily
- Soluble in both water and ethanol
- Also functions as a binder, dispersant and complexing agent
Applications
- Hair gels, sprays, mousses and styling creams
- Setting lotions and hair fixatives
- Film-forming skin care and peel-off masks
- Pharmaceutical binder and tablet coating
- Dispersing and suspending agent
Documentation
- Technical Data Sheet (TDS)Request
- Safety Data Sheet (SDS)Request
- Certificate of Analysis (COA)Download PDF
The COA is generated from our current product data and reports conformance against the standard specification — a batch-specific Certificate of Analysis carrying the measured values, batch number and dates is issued with each consignment. TDS and SDS are shared on request. More on how we document.
About PVP K90
Frequently asked
Not covered here? Send the question with your enquiry and we will answer it directly.
01 What is the difference between PVP K30 and K90?
The K value indicates molecular weight. K90 is high molecular weight, giving stronger hold and higher solution viscosity, while K30 is lower and more commonly used as a pharmaceutical binder and dispersant. Both grades are available on enquiry.
02 What is the CAS number of PVP K90?
The CAS number for polyvinylpyrrolidone is 9003-39-8 and the INCI name is PVP. It is also known as Povidone K90.
03 Why does my PVP hair gel get sticky in humid weather?
PVP films are water sensitive and pick up atmospheric moisture, which is what causes tack in humid conditions. Formulators usually blend PVP with VP/VA copolymer or a silicone to improve humidity resistance.
