Polyglyceryl-10 Mono/Dioleate

What is Polyglyceryl-10 Mono/Dioleate?

Polyglyceryl-10 Mono/Dioleate is a non-ionic surfactant and emollient formed by linking polyglycerol-10, a polymer of ten glycerol units from vegetable sources, with one or two oleic acid chains from plant oils like olive or sunflower. It serves as a PEG-free alternative in cosmetic formulations such as lotions, creams, shampoos, and cleansers. By positioning itself at the oil-water interface, it reduces surface tension to create stable emulsions, preventing separation and ensuring even texture. Its emollient properties deposit a light film on skin to enhance smoothness and limit moisture evaporation, while surfactant action enables effective yet gentle removal of impurities. Valued for biodegradability and mild profile, it fits modern clean beauty preferences.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores

EWG Safety Rating 1 View on EWG →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Emollient

Softens and smooths skin by filling in surface roughness and improving slip; can also help reduce moisture loss when paired with occlusives and film formers.

Surfactant

Lowers surface tension to enable cleansing, emulsifying, and foaming; central to shampoos, body washes, and many emulsions and micellar systems.

Emulsifying agent

Enables stable mixing of oil and water phases by forming an interfacial film, helping create lotions, creams, and cleansers with consistent texture.

Skin conditioning agent

Maintains skin softness, smoothness, and flexibility.

Benefits

Enhances product stability by emulsifying oil and water phases

Softens and smooths skin as an emollient

Facilitates gentle cleansing through surfactant properties

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit	Who Should Avoid
People with dry skin needing moisture-retaining emollients	Those allergic to oleic acid or glycerol sources
Users seeking stable lotions and creams	People with contact sensitivities to polyglyceryl esters
Individuals preferring mild surfactants in cleansers	Individuals preferring to avoid multi-functional cosmetic ingredients

Safety Notes

Assessed as low hazard for cosmetic use
Generally mild with minimal irritation reports

Frequently Asked Questions about Polyglyceryl-10 Mono/Dioleate

What is Polyglyceryl-10 Mono/Dioleate used for?

Emulsifying, emollient, and surfactant roles in creams, lotions, and cleansers.

Is it irritating to skin?

Low irritation potential based on safety reviews.

Safe for sensitive skin?

Generally suitable, with low hazard assessments.