Polyglyceryl-6 Distearate

What is Polyglyceryl-6 Distearate?

Polyglyceryl-6 Distearate is a non-ionic surfactant derived from polyglycerol-6, a polymer chain of six glycerol units, esterified with stearic acid, a common saturated fatty acid from vegetable oils like palm or coconut. This creates a waxy, lipophilic compound widely used in cosmetic emulsions such as lotions, creams, and cleansers. It functions by positioning itself at the oil-water interface, reducing interfacial tension to form stable mixtures that prevent phase separation and ensure even distribution of active ingredients. Its emollient properties come from stearic acid's occlusive nature, helping to mimic skin's lipid barrier for better moisture retention. As a surfactant, it enables gentle foaming and rinsing in wash-off products, while its mild profile suits rinse-off and leave-on formulations across facial and body care.

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 action to soften and smooth the skin's surface.

Acts as an emulsifying agent for stable, creamy textures in lotions and creams.

Offers surfactant properties for effective yet gentle cleansing in 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 looking for smoother skin feel from daily moisturizers.
People with known sensitivity to fatty acid derivatives.
Users of emulsion-based products needing consistent blend of oils and water.
Those experiencing reactions to stearic acid-containing ingredients.
Those preferring mild surfactants in cleansers for everyday routines.
Individuals advised by dermatologists to limit emulsifiers.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low hazard by EWG with minimal concerns for use in cosmetics.
  • Non-comedogenic, unlikely to clog pores based on available ratings.

Frequently Asked Questions about Polyglyceryl-6 Distearate

What is Polyglyceryl-6 Distearate made from?

It's formed by linking polyglycerol-6 with stearic acid, a fatty acid from plant sources.

Is it safe for daily skincare use?

Yes, it carries a low safety rating and is common in everyday lotions and cleansers.

Does it cause irritation?

Evidence points to low irritation potential in cosmetic concentrations.