Polyglyceryl-3 Caprate

What is Polyglyceryl-3 Caprate?

Polyglyceryl-3 Caprate forms by linking polyglycerol-3, a chain of plant-sourced glycerol molecules, with caprate, a fatty acid from coconut or palm sources. This creates a gentle, non-ionic compound used across cleansers, lotions, creams, and makeup removers. It lowers surface tension for better spreading and removal of dirt, while building micelles to lift impurities without stripping natural oils. As an emulsifier, it coats droplets of oil in water-based products, preventing separation for even consistency. Its emollient nature adds slip and hydration retention, delivering a lightweight feel ideal for daily routines in natural-leaning cosmetics.

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 effects to smooth skin texture and minimize dryness.

Supports surfactant action for mild cleansing and foam generation.

Enables emulsifying to maintain stable blends in creams and washes.

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 gentle, non-drying cleansers for face and body.
Those with known allergies to coconut or palm-derived fatty acids.
Users preferring plant-based alternatives in moisturizers and serums.
Individuals sensitive to glycerol-based polymers.
People wanting stable, non-separating formulations for daily use.
People experiencing reactions to multi-functional surfactants.

Safety Notes

  • Regarded as low concern for use in cosmetics by safety assessments.
  • Non-comedogenic, unlikely to clog pores based on ratings.

Frequently Asked Questions about Polyglyceryl-3 Caprate

What makes Polyglyceryl-3 Caprate suitable for sensitive skin?

Its mild surfactant properties cleanse gently without disrupting the skin barrier.

Is it found in natural cosmetics?

Yes, as a vegetable-derived, biodegradable emulsifier free from ethoxylated compounds.

Does it contribute to product stability?

It emulsifies oil-water mixes, ensuring consistent texture in lotions and creams.