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POLYGLYCERYL-6 LAURATE.

Valuable CAS 51033-38-6 / SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

Polyglyceryl-6 Laurate is a versatile nonionic surfactant and emulsifier, skillfully blending oil and water phases to create stable, uniform cosmetic formulations. Beyond preventing ingredient separation, it contributes to smoother product textures and offers gentle cleansing without irritation, while supporting skin hydration and barrier function.

Emulsifying Surfactant Cleansing (Gentle) Solubilizing

Science

Polyglyceryl-6 Laurate functions by significantly reducing the interfacial tension between immiscible liquid phases, primarily oils and water. This allows for the creation of stable, homogenous oil-in-water emulsions, preventing phase separation and ensuring consistent product texture. Furthermore, it acts as a mild surfactant to facilitate gentle cleansing without compromising the skin's barrier integrity, and possesses solubilizing properties for difficult-to-dissolve substances, potentially enhancing the delivery of other active ingredients within microemulsion systems.


Research

High confidence
Effective range 1–5%
Optimal

N/A


Transparency

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

As a hydrophilic, nonionic ester, Polyglyceryl-6 Laurate demonstrates robust resistance to salts and acids. However, its ester linkage makes it susceptible to hydrolysis under highly acidic or strongly basic conditions, which should be carefully considered during formulation.

Synergies

  • May enhance the penetration of other active ingredients, particularly within microemulsion systems.

Conflicts

  • Strong acids (prone to hydrolysis)
  • Strong bases (prone to hydrolysis)
  • Certain aggressive or highly concentrated active ingredients (may impair stability or efficacy)

Safety

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
5%
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has deemed Polyglyceryl-6 Laurate safe for cosmetic use, provided formulations are designed to be non-irritating, especially within the recommended concentration range of 1-5%. While higher concentrations of related glyceryl laurate have shown moderate erythema in patch tests, Polyglyceryl-6 Laurate itself is recognized for its low irritancy and non-sensitizing profile. It is also approved for cosmetic use by the FDA in the United States.


Your Skin

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

Our Assessment

Valuable

Polyglyceryl-6 Laurate is a valuable, gentle ingredient prized for its emulsifying and mild surfactant properties, ensuring stable formulations and broad skin compatibility across diverse product types.


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