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SHEA BUTTER POLYGLYCERYL-6 ESTERS.

Valuable CAS - / SKIN CONDITIONING - EMOLLIENT, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

Shea Butter Polyglyceryl-6 Esters is a naturally-derived ingredient functioning primarily as a highly effective emulsifier for both oil-in-water and water-in-oil systems. As a polyglyceryl fatty acid ester, it simultaneously delivers significant skin-conditioning benefits and contributes to emollience.

Summary

Emulsifying Skin-conditioning Emollient Surfactant

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient acts as an excellent natural emulsifier, crucial for stabilizing both water-in-oil (W/O) and oil-in-water (O/W) cream formulations. It also performs as a surfactant and a skin-conditioning agent. Its derivation from shea butter confers emollient properties and supports the skin's barrier function.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Insufficient-data confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

No data available in the research to suggest this ingredient commonly forms a powdery residue or 'dusts' on the skin.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

While an optimal pH range for the stability of Shea Butter Polyglyceryl-6 Esters specifically is not defined, related liquid shea butter esters in finished formulations have shown optimal performance around pH 7. In products with high shea butter content (not exclusively this ester), controlled cooling to 22-24°C is recommended post-emulsification to prevent crystal formation or 'bloom'.

Synergies

  • Other esters
  • Vegetable oils
  • Silicones
  • Synthetic emollients
  • Actives (for improved aesthetic properties)

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel assessed a broad class of 274 polyglyceryl fatty acid esters, including Shea Butter Polyglyceryl-6 Esters, concluding they are safe for cosmetic use within current practice and concentrations, provided formulations are non-irritating. Polyglycerol esters are generally recognized as biodegradable, biocompatible, noncarcinogenic, and non-toxic, with no adverse effects observed even at a test concentration of 5 wt%. Its parent ingredient, shea butter, has been safely used in moisturizers at concentrations up to 100%, demonstrating a low risk of primary cutaneous irritation or sensitization up to 60%.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Shea Butter Polyglyceryl-6 Esters is a valuable ingredient, providing versatile emulsification and effective skin conditioning with a strong safety profile and broad compatibility across all skin types.

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