Polyglyceryl-3 Laurate

What is Polyglyceryl-3 Laurate?

Polyglyceryl-3 laurate is a non-ionic emulsifier and surfactant produced by esterifying a chain of three glycerol molecules with lauric acid, a fatty acid from coconut or palm kernel oils. This creates a hydrophilic-lipophilic balance ideal for cosmetic formulations. It appears in cleansers, lotions, creams, and micellar waters, where it reduces surface tension to blend oil and water phases effectively. As an emollient, it smooths skin texture by mimicking natural lipids, while its surfactant properties enable gentle impurity removal and light foaming. Its structure supports stable emulsions, preventing separation for consistent product texture. Derived from renewable vegetable sources, it offers a biodegradable alternative in natural-leaning skincare, contributing to mild, non-stripping performance across various product types.

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 soften and smooth the skin's surface.

Functions as a surfactant for effective yet gentle cleansing and foaming.

Acts as an emulsifying agent to create stable blends of oils and water in creams and lotions.

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 preferring mild, plant-based ingredients in daily cleansers.
Those with known allergies to coconut or palm-derived fatty acids.
People with normal to sensitive skin seeking non-drying surfactants.
People experiencing irritation from multi-ester surfactants.
Users of emulsion-based products like moisturizers for improved texture.
Individuals with compromised skin barriers during active flare-ups.

Safety Notes

  • Regarded as safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations by expert reviews.
  • Shows low comedogenic potential, unlikely to clog pores.

Frequently Asked Questions about Polyglyceryl-3 Laurate

Is polyglyceryl-3 laurate suitable for sensitive skin?

Yes, its mild surfactant nature makes it a good choice for sensitive skin formulations.

What products commonly contain it?

Found in cleansers, lotions, creams, and micellar waters for emulsifying and emollient roles.

Does it clog pores?

It has a comedogenic rating of 0, indicating low risk of pore clogging.