Skip to content

Other

POLYLYSINE

CAS 25104-18-1
82

Safety score · 0–100

Good

Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.

About

Polylysine is a cosmetic ingredient used in product formulations. Exercise caution due to limited available safety data.

Polylysine (ε-poly-L-lysine, CAS 25104-18-1) is a homopolymer of L-lysine produced by fermentation of Streptomyces albulus. It functions as an antimicrobial preservative with broad-spectrum activity against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, yeasts, and moulds. It is FDA GRAS-approved for food preservation and is gaining popularity in cosmetics as a 'clean' preservative alternative. Its cationic nature disrupts microbial cell membranes. Studies show low cytotoxicity to mammalian cells and good skin tolerance at typical cosmetic concentrations (0.01-0.5%).

Skin benefits

  • Natural antimicrobial preservation
  • Gentle on skin compared to traditional preservatives
  • Biodegradable and eco-friendly
  • Moisture retention from amino acid structure

Known concerns

  • May cause mild irritation at high concentrations due to cationic charge
  • Antimicrobial spectrum may be insufficient as a standalone preservative
  • Interaction with anionic ingredients can reduce efficacy

References

EU

EU CosIng database

European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry — regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.

Related others

82
1,3-Dimethylpentylamine and its salts
Other
 82
2-METHYL-2-OCTANOL
Other
 82
3-AMINO-2-BUTANOL
Other
 82
ACETOIN
Other
 82
ACETYL METHYL OLEANOLATE
Other
 82
APRICOTAMIDOPROPYL BETAINE
Other
 82
BENZYL 3-GLYCERYL ASCORBATE
Other
 82
BUTYL ACETYL RICINOLEATE
Other

Check your shelf

Find POLYLYSINE in your products.

Scan any cosmetic product with LuxSense to see if it contains POLYLYSINE and get a full ingredient breakdown with safety scores.

This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve — always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.