Get a Free 5ml Mini Now Free 5ml Mini With Every Order of The Mantle
Moumoujus

POLYGLYCERYL-4 LAURATE/SEBACATE.

Valuable / SOLVENT, SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - HYDROTROPE

Polyglyceryl-4 Laurate/Sebacate is a versatile ester that stabilizes oil and water phases in cosmetic formulations. It also offers gentle cleansing, emollient, and humectant properties, contributing to improved skin hydration and a smooth feel.

Summary

Emulsifying Surfactant Emollient Humectant Solubilizer Solvent Hydrotrope Stabilizer Barrier Function Enhancer

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient primarily functions as an emulsifier, expertly blending immiscible oil and water components to create stable, homogeneous formulations and prevent separation over time. As a mild surfactant, it gently removes dirt, excess oil, and impurities without stripping the skin's natural barrier, and can provide subtle foaming. It acts as an emollient, imparting a soft and smooth sensation to the skin, and as a humectant, drawing moisture into the skin to enhance hydration and combat dryness. Furthermore, it serves as an effective solubilizer for fragrances and oils within aqueous systems, boosting overall product stability, ensuring effective distribution of active components, and contributing to enhanced skin barrier function.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range 5–10%
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Polyglyceryl-4 Laurate/Sebacate exhibits strong compatibility across various formulation systems. It can be effectively combined with active ingredients such as nicotinamide, retinol, and hyaluronic acid without compromising their efficacy or stability.

Synergies

  • Nicotinamide
  • Retinol
  • Hyaluronic Acid

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
10%
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) board has determined Polyglyceryl-4 Laurate/Sebacate to be safe for cosmetic use. Regulatory bodies including the FDA and ECHA also acknowledge the safety of its primary component, Polyglyceryl-4 Laurate. While generally considered mild and non-irritating, a singular report suggested potential for irritation or acne in very large quantities; however, the prevailing scientific consensus widely describes it as gentle and non-comedogenic. It is recommended for use up to a maximum concentration of 10%.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

A highly versatile and well-tolerated ingredient that significantly enhances formulation stability and texture while providing multiple benefits for skin hydration and gentle cleansing across all skin types.

Related

Similar Ingredients

Finding similar ingredients…