Polyglyceryl-2 Sesquiisostearate

What is Polyglyceryl-2 Sesquiisostearate?

Polyglyceryl-2 Sesquiisostearate is a non-ionic surfactant produced by esterifying polyglycerol-2—a dimer of glycerol sourced from vegetable glycerin—with sesquiisostearic acid, a branched fatty acid derived from isostearic acid in high-oleic plant oils like rapeseed or sunflower. This creates a versatile, biodegradable ingredient often used in natural and organic cosmetics. It falls into the emulsifiers and emollients category, where it lowers surface tension to merge oil and water phases in products like moisturizers, cleansers, and sunscreens. By creating a stable interfacial film, it prevents ingredient separation, improves texture uniformity, and enhances product spreadability. Its mild emollient properties also help mimic skin's natural lipids, promoting a smoother feel without heaviness.

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 emollient action to soften skin and minimize roughness.

Supports surfactant function for effective yet mild cleansing.

Enables emulsifying to create stable, smooth-textured formulations.

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 needing softening agents.
Those with rare allergies to glycerol derivatives.
Users of lotions and creams for better product stability.
Individuals seeking fully anhydrous or oil-only products.
People preferring mild surfactants in daily cleansers.
People avoiding multi-functional esters in simple routines.

Safety Notes

  • Shows low irritation potential in cosmetic applications.
  • Rated non-comedogenic, fitting for various skin types.

Frequently Asked Questions about Polyglyceryl-2 Sesquiisostearate

What does it do in products?

It emulsifies oil-water mixes, softens skin as an emollient, and aids gentle cleansing as a surfactant.

Is it suitable for sensitive skin?

Yes, it has low irritation potential and supports stable, mild formulations.

Can it cause breakouts?

No, it carries a zero comedogenic rating, making it pore-friendly.