Polyglyceryl-6 Ricinoleate

What is Polyglyceryl-6 Ricinoleate?

Polyglyceryl-6 Ricinoleate is a bio-based, non-ionic emulsifier produced by esterifying ricinoleic acid—extracted from castor oil—with polyglycerol-6, a chain of six glycerol molecules. This creates a hydrophilic-lipophilic compound ideal for cosmetic formulations such as lotions, creams, makeup removers, and cleansing products. It functions by lowering surface tension at oil-water interfaces, forming stable micelles that prevent phase separation and ensure even distribution of ingredients. As a surfactant, it facilitates the removal of oils and impurities during cleansing without stripping the skin. Its skin-conditioning properties stem from its emollient nature, which helps form protective films that lock in moisture and enhance product spreadability. Commonly found in natural and organic cosmetics, it supports clean beauty trends by offering a gentle alternative to synthetic emulsifiers.

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:

Skin conditioning agent
Maintains skin softness, smoothness, and flexibility.
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

Stabilizes oil-water mixtures for consistent cream and lotion textures.

Gently cleanses by dispersing oils and dirt in washes and micellar waters.

Softens skin surface, promoting smoothness and flexibility.

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 stable, natural emulsions in daily moisturizers.
Anyone with known allergies to castor oil derivatives.
Individuals preferring gentle surfactants in cleansers.
People sensitive to polyglycerol esters.
Those wanting plant-based skin conditioners in lotions.
Those preferring fully anhydrous formulations.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low hazard by independent safety assessments.
  • Generally recognized as safe for use in cosmetics at typical levels.

Frequently Asked Questions about Polyglyceryl-6 Ricinoleate

What is Polyglyceryl-6 Ricinoleate made from?

It comes from ricinoleic acid in castor oil combined with polyglycerol-6.

Is it safe for sensitive skin?

It has low irritation potential based on safety reviews.

What products use it?

Common in lotions, cleansers, and makeup removers for emulsifying.