PVP Good Film-Forming Agent No known benefits PVP description PVP, short for polyvinylpyrrolidone, is one of the primary ingredients used in hairstyling products to hold hair in place. When present in minuscule amounts in skin-care products, it places an imperceptible film over the skin that is considered to be water-binding and that helps give the appearance of firmer skin. It can aggravate skin for some individuals. Related ingredients: Polyvinylpyrrolidone PVP Copolymer