Polyglyceryl-3 Cocoate

What is Polyglyceryl-3 Cocoate?

Polyglyceryl-3 cocoate is a non-ionic surfactant and emulsifier produced by esterifying polyglycerol-3, derived from vegetable glycerin, with fatty acids from coconut oil. This creates a gentle, water-soluble compound commonly used in rinse-off cleansers, shampoos, body washes, and light emulsions like micellar waters and lotions. It works by lowering surface tension between oil and water, enabling effective dirt and oil removal during cleansing while stabilizing product formulations to prevent separation. Its mild nature stems from the natural origins and structure that mimics skin lipids, making it suitable for daily personal care products without harsh chemical synthesis.

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:

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

Supports gentle cleansing by effectively removing impurities while being kind to skin.

Helps create stable emulsions for smooth-textured lotions and cleansers.

Contributes to foaming in washes without excessive drying.

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 seeking mild, natural-derived surfactants in daily cleansers.
Individuals with rare allergies to coconut-derived components.
Those preferring coconut-based ingredients in body washes and shampoos.
Those sensitive to polyglycerol esters, though uncommon.
Users of sensitive skin formulations needing stable, non-separating products.
People avoiding any plant oil derivatives in cosmetics.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low hazard by independent assessments for cosmetic use.
  • Non-comedogenic, unlikely to clog pores in typical concentrations.

Frequently Asked Questions about Polyglyceryl-3 Cocoate

What is Polyglyceryl-3 Cocoate made from?

It comes from coconut fatty acids combined with polyglycerol-3 from glycerin.

Is it safe for sensitive skin?

Yes, it has a low hazard rating and mild profile for most users.

What products commonly contain it?

Found in shampoos, body washes, cleansers, and emulsion-based lotions.