Polyglyceryl-5 Oleate

What is Polyglyceryl-5 Oleate?

Polyglyceryl-5 oleate is a non-ionic compound created by linking a chain of five glycerol molecules with oleic acid, a common fatty acid from plant oils. This structure allows it to function across multiple roles in skincare products. As an emollient, it lubricates the skin's surface, reducing dryness and enhancing product spreadability. In its surfactant capacity, it reduces surface tension to support gentle cleansing and dispersion of ingredients. Primarily as an emulsifying agent, it bridges oil and water phases, creating stable lotions, creams, and cleansers that maintain uniform texture over time. Commonly found in moisturizers, body washes, and makeup removers, it contributes to lightweight, non-greasy formulations suitable for daily use. Its mild nature stems from the ester linkage, mimicking natural skin lipids without heavy residue.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1 View on EWG →
PubChem View on PubChem →

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 a smoothing effect on skin texture for improved feel.

Supports stable emulsions in creams and lotions for even application.

Facilitates mild cleansing in washes and micellar products.

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 with normal to dry skin needing lightweight hydration.
Those with rare allergies to glycerol or oleic acid derivatives.
Users of emulsion-based products like lotions and serums.
People sensitive to emulsifiers in high concentrations.
Individuals seeking gentle surfactants in cleansers.
Individuals avoiding fatty acid esters for personal reasons.

Safety Notes

  • Considered safe for cosmetic use with low hazard potential.
  • Non-comedogenic, unlikely to clog pores.

Frequently Asked Questions about Polyglyceryl-5 Oleate

What is polyglyceryl-5 oleate?

A glycerol-based ester with oleic acid used as an emollient, surfactant, and emulsifier in cosmetics.

Is it safe for sensitive skin?

It has a low hazard profile and mild nature suitable for most skin types.

Does it cause breakouts?

Rated non-comedogenic, so unlikely to contribute to pore clogging.