Science
Mechanism of Action
This ingredient functions synergistically to improve skin condition and formulation stability. As an emollient, it provides exogenous lipids, enhancing the skin's natural barrier properties and contributing to a softer, smoother skin texture. Its emulsifying capabilities stabilize oil and water components, forming uniform and stable emulsions. As a surfactant, it effectively lowers surface tension, allowing for the dissolution and removal of oil and impurities from the skin. Furthermore, it acts as a solubilizer, enabling oil-soluble ingredients, such as fragrances, to integrate seamlessly into water-based systems, while also drawing moisture to the skin to aid in recovery from dryness.
Research
Clinical Evidence
High confidenceN/A
Key findings
- 01 Typical use levels in formulations range from 1.0% to 7.0% for its various functions including emulsifying, solubilizing, and skin conditioning.
- 02 A related compound, Polyglyceryl-10 monocaprylate, at a 4 wt% concentration, exhibited moderate irritation (score of 8.4) in a HET-CAM assay, which was significantly lower than the severe irritation caused by PEG-6 caprylic/capric glycerides (score of 14.1). This related compound also demonstrated effective makeup removal properties.
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
As a viscous liquid, POLYGLYCERYL-10 HEXACAPRYLATE/CAPRATE does not present a dusting concern during handling or formulation.
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
Appearing as a clear to pale yellow or hazy yellow to amber viscous liquid, this ingredient is primarily soluble in alcohol (ethanol), isopropyl alcohol, vegetable oils, and silicones. While insoluble in water, it can be readily dispersed in hot water. It effectively functions as an oil-in-water (O/W) emulsifier, co-emulsifying agent, and emulsion stabilizer. It is also valued as a fragrance solubilizer and foam stabilizer, offering a PEG, PPG, and Chlorine-free alternative to traditional polysorbates.
Safety
Safety Profile
The CIR Expert Panel has deemed polyglyceryl fatty acid esters, including Polyglyceryl-10 Caprylate, safe for use in cosmetics at current concentrations and practices, provided the final formulation is non-irritating. It is generally considered non-toxic, carries a low hazard rating, and presents minimal risk of irritation at typical concentrations (1% to 10%). It exhibits no significant sensitization potential, is non-comedogenic, and complies with EU COSING regulations.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
POLYGLYCERYL-10 HEXACAPRYLATE/CAPRATE is a highly valuable, well-tolerated, and multi-functional ingredient that significantly enhances formulation stability, skin conditioning, and cleansing efficacy across a broad spectrum of skincare products.
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