Polyglyceryl-10 Pentaoleate

What is Polyglyceryl-10 Pentaoleate?

Polyglyceryl-10 Pentaoleate is a non-ionic surfactant and emollient created by esterifying decaglycerol (a polymer of glycerol) with five molecules of oleic acid, typically sourced from vegetable oils like olive or sunflower. It belongs to the polyglyceryl ester family, favored in natural-leaning cosmetics as a PEG-free alternative. Commonly found in lotions, creams, and cleansers, it works by lowering interfacial tension between oil and water, forming stable emulsions with a balanced hydrophilic-lipophilic profile. As an emollient, it lubricates the skin surface, enhancing product spreadability and texture. Its surfactant properties aid in mild cleansing without stripping natural oils, making it suitable for daily formulations.

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.

Benefits

Provides a smooth, softening effect on skin texture through emollient action.

Helps create stable oil-in-water emulsions for consistent lotion and cream textures.

Supports gentle cleansing as a mild surfactant in washes and micellar products.

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 seeking added softness and moisture retention support.
Those with known allergies to oleic acid or related vegetable oil derivatives.
Individuals preferring mild, non-stripping cleansers for daily routines.
People experiencing irritation from similar polyglyceryl esters, though rare.
Users of emulsion-based products like moisturizers for improved stability and feel.
Individuals sensitive to multi-ester surfactants in high concentrations.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low hazard by safety assessments, suitable for most cosmetic uses.
  • Demonstrates low comedogenic potential, unlikely to clog pores.

Frequently Asked Questions about Polyglyceryl-10 Pentaoleate

What is Polyglyceryl-10 Pentaoleate made from?

It's an ester of polyglycerol-10 and oleic acid from vegetable sources, used as a multifunctional cosmetic ingredient.

Is it safe for sensitive skin?

Safety reviews indicate low irritation risk, making it suitable for many formulations.

What products commonly contain it?

Found in creams, lotions, and cleansers for emulsifying and softening benefits.