Polyglyceryl-10 Stearate

Benefits
Softening

What is Polyglyceryl-10 Stearate?

Polyglyceryl-10 Stearate is a non-ionic surfactant and emulsifier created by esterifying decaglycerol—a chain of ten glycerol molecules—with stearic acid, a common fatty acid from vegetable or animal sources. In cosmetics, it belongs to the polyglyceryl ester family, prized for its mild nature and versatility in oil-in-water emulsions. It works by lowering surface tension between oil and water phases, forming a protective film that prevents separation and ensures product stability. This makes it ideal for daily-use items like moisturizers, sunscreens, and gentle facial cleansers. Its hydrophilic properties allow even distribution of active ingredients, while contributing to a smooth, non-greasy texture. Derived often from renewable plant sources, it supports clean-label formulations without compromising performance in rinse-off or leave-on products.

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

Provides softening effect for smoother skin feel.

Acts as skin conditioner to maintain flexibility and hydration.

Stabilizes emulsions for consistent product texture and performance.

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 with dry or rough skin seeking gentle softening.
Those with rare allergies to stearic acid or glycerol derivatives.
Users of lotions and creams wanting stable, smooth formulas.
Individuals sensitive to emulsifiers in high concentrations.
People preferring mild surfactants in daily cleansers.
People preferring completely anhydrous product formulations.

Safety Notes

  • Considered safe for cosmetic use by regulatory reviews.
  • Low potential for comedogenicity, suitable for acne-prone skin.

Frequently Asked Questions about Polyglyceryl-10 Stearate

What is Polyglyceryl-10 Stearate used for?

It serves as an emulsifier, surfactant, and skin conditioner in creams, lotions, and cleansers to blend ingredients and soften skin.

Is it safe for sensitive skin?

It has a low irritation profile and is generally well-tolerated in cosmetics.

Does it cause breakouts?

With a comedogenic rating of zero, it is unlikely to clog pores.