2025-06-18
PVP K90 (Polyvinyl pyrrolidone) is a widely used polymer that plays an essential role in personal care products, especially in hair gel. Due to its excellent adhesion, film-forming properties, and long-lasting hold, PVP K90 has become a key ingredient in many hair gel formulations. This article will provide a detailed introduction to the performance of PVP K90 in hair gels, its advantages, as well as formulation and usage recommendations to help you optimize your hairstyle.
1. High Adhesion and Hold
PVP K90 provides a strong hold for hair gel. The thin film it forms effectively holds the hair in shape throughout the day, ensuring your hairstyle stays intact. This powerful styling capability makes PVP K90 a standout ingredient in hair gel products.
2. Quick Drying and Long-Lasting Hold
PVP K90 dries quickly, forming a strong film on the hair without leaving a greasy feeling. Additionally, its excellent film-forming property ensures that the hairstyle remains intact even after a day of activity, reducing the need for frequent touch-ups.
3. Humidity and Water Resistance
PVP K90 effectively resists humidity, preventing the hairstyle from being disrupted in damp environments. Its water-soluble nature also allows for easy removal with water when necessary, leaving no residue behind.
4. High Transparency and Shine
The film formed by PVP K90 is highly transparent, allowing the natural color of the hair to show through. It also adds a healthy shine to the hair, making the hairstyle appear fuller and smoother.
1. Enhanced Hairstyle Longevity
The strong hold and long-lasting properties of PVP K90 ensure that the hairstyle stays in place throughout the day without easily being disrupted. This makes it particularly suitable for occasions where a long-lasting hairstyle is needed, such as formal events and weddings.
2. Gentle and Non-Irritating
Compared to other chemical ingredients, PVP K90 is relatively mild and usually does not cause allergic reactions. Therefore, it is suitable for all skin types.
3. Ease of Application
PVP K90 is typically used in a water-soluble form in formulations, making it easy to mix with other ingredients and disperse. This versatility allows it to be widely used in hair gel formulations and combined with various other ingredients.
4. Environmentally Friendly and Biodegradable
As a synthetic polymer, PVP K90 is relatively environmentally friendly and biodegradable, making it a responsible choice for use in personal care products without causing long-term environmental harm.
In hair gel formulations, the typical concentration of PVP K90 ranges from 2% to 10%, depending on the desired viscosity and hold strength. If a stronger hold is required, the concentration of PVP K90 can be increased; conversely, it can be reduced for a lighter hold.
Basic Hair Gel Formula:
• Water (Phase A): 70-80%
• PVP K90: 5-7%
• Glycerin: 2-3% (Moisturizing)
• Preservative: 0.5-1% (e.g., Phenoxyethanol)
• Fragrance: 0.2-0.5%
• Alcohol (e.g., Ethanol): As needed (to help dissolve PVP K90 and adjust evaporation rate)
High-Strength Hold Hair Gel Formula:
• Water (Phase A): 60-70%
• PVP K90: 8-10%
• Glycerin: 2-3%
• Preservative: 0.5-1%
• Thickener (e.g., Hydroxyethylcellulose): 0.3-1%
• Fragrance: As needed
Lightweight Hold Hair Gel Formula:
• Water (Phase A): 75-85%
• PVP K90: 4-5%
• Glycerin: 1-2%
• Preservative: 0.5-1%
• Fragrance: As needed
1. L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Extra Strong Hold Hairspray
Providing long-lasting strong hold and maintaining shine and smoothness, suitable for all hair types.
2. Schwarzkopf Taft Power Hair Spray
Offers ultra-strong hold, ensuring hairstyle stays in place throughout the day, perfect for designs requiring all-day hold.
3. TRESemmé Tres Two Extra Hold Hairspray
Long-lasting hold and strong styling without leaving any residue, suitable for a variety of hair types and styles.
PVP K90 plays a crucial role in hair gels by providing strong hold, quick drying, long-lasting performance, and mildness. Its ability to deliver a durable hairstyle without irritating the scalp makes it a key ingredient in numerous popular hair gel products. With the right formulation, PVP K90 can help you achieve the ideal hairstyle, whether you are going for a natural, voluminous look, a sleek style, or a strong hold that lasts all day.