Polyglyceryl-5 Laurate

What is Polyglyceryl-5 Laurate?

Polyglyceryl-5 laurate is a non-ionic surfactant and emulsifier produced by esterifying polyglycerol-5, a short-chain polymer of vegetable-derived glycerol, with lauric acid, a saturated fatty acid sourced from coconut or palm kernel oil. This creates a gentle, water-soluble ingredient commonly used in natural and organic skincare products like facial cleansers, micellar waters, lotions, and baby washes. It functions by lowering surface tension to facilitate oil-water mixing, forming stable emulsions with a lightweight texture, while providing mild cleansing and a smoothing emollient effect. Its intermediate HLB value around 13 makes it ideal for oil-in-water systems, offering a PEG-free alternative to traditional ethoxylated emulsifiers, promoting product stability without compromising skin feel.

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

Enhances skin smoothness through emollient properties that improve texture and reduce dryness.

Supports gentle cleansing by effectively removing impurities while maintaining skin's moisture balance.

Stabilizes emulsions in creams and lotions for consistent application and long-lasting 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 sensitive skin seeking mild surfactants in daily cleansers.
People with known allergies to coconut-derived ingredients, due to lauric acid origin.
Users preferring plant-based ingredients in natural skincare formulations.
Individuals experiencing irritation from multi-functional surfactants in high concentrations.
Those formulating or using lightweight lotions and micellar products for everyday hydration.
Those preferring strictly anhydrous or oil-only products without emulsifiers.

Safety Notes

  • Considered low hazard overall, with minimal concerns for use in rinse-off and leave-on cosmetics.
  • Non-comedogenic profile supports suitability for acne-prone skin without pore clogging.

Frequently Asked Questions about Polyglyceryl-5 Laurate

What is polyglyceryl-5 laurate derived from?

It comes from polyglycerol-5, made from vegetable glycerol, esterified with lauric acid from coconut or palm sources.

Is it suitable for sensitive skin?

Yes, its mild profile makes it a good choice for gentle cleansers and emulsions targeting sensitive types.

Does it clog pores?

No, it has a non-comedogenic rating, suitable for various skin types without pore concerns.