Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate

What is Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate?

Polyglyceryl-10 oleate is a versatile cosmetic ingredient formed by linking ten glycerol molecules, derived from vegetable sources, with oleic acid from plant oils like olive or sunflower. This creates a non-ionic compound widely used in cleansers, lotions, creams, and shampoos. It works by lowering surface tension between oil and water phases, enabling stable emulsions with even textures that spread smoothly. As a multifunctional agent, it supports gentle cleansing through surfactant action and enhances skin conditioning by promoting hydration retention and suppleness. Valued for its mild profile, it fits into daily rinse-off and leave-on products, contributing to consistent performance without compromising formula elegance.

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:

Skin conditioning agent
Maintains skin softness, smoothness, and flexibility.
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.

Benefits

Stabilizes oil-water mixtures for creamy, non-separating textures in lotions and cleansers.

Gently cleanses by reducing surface tension, aiding removal of dirt and oils.

Maintains skin's natural softness and flexibility through conditioning 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
Individuals seeking stable, smooth-textured skincare products like lotions.
Those with rare allergies to oleic acid or glycerol derivatives.
Users of gentle cleansers for daily routines.
Users avoiding multi-glycerol esters in formulations.
People preferring plant-sourced emulsifiers in personal care items.
Individuals sensitive to mild surfactants, despite low irritation reports.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low hazard by safety assessments from cosmetic review panels.
  • Non-comedogenic, unlikely to clog pores based on ratings.

Frequently Asked Questions about Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate

Is polyglyceryl-10 oleate natural?

Derived from vegetable glycerol and oleic acid, making it plant-sourced.

Does it clog pores?

Rated non-comedogenic at 0, suitable for pore-friendly routines.

Safe for sensitive skin?

Low irritation potential per safety data, often used in mild products.