Best For Skin Types
All, Dry, Combination
Addresses
Usage Frequency
Daily
What Is Polyglyceryl-3 Stearate …?
Polyglyceryl-3 Stearate/Isostearate/Dimer Dilinoleate Crosspolymer is a synthetic polymer derived from glycerin and fatty acids. It functions as both a humectant and skin conditioning agent, meaning it draws moisture into the skin whilst also helping to soften and smooth the skin surface.
This ingredient is used in formulations to improve texture, enhance hydration, and create a more pleasant sensory experience. It's a multi-tasking component designed to work alongside other active ingredients in a skincare routine.
How It Works
As a humectant, this polymer works by attracting water molecules from the environment and deeper skin layers, helping to bind moisture to the stratum corneum (the skin's outermost layer). This can help reduce transepidermal water loss and support overall hydration.
Its conditioning properties come from its structure, which can coat the skin lightly, creating a smoother appearance and improving how skincare products feel during application.
Clinical Evidence & References
Research specifically on this particular ingredient is limited. However, humectants and skin conditioning polymers generally show modest benefits for hydration and skin feel in formulation studies. Most evidence comes from cosmetic chemistry research rather than clinical trials on human skin.
This ingredient is widely used in established skincare formulations, suggesting industry confidence in its safety and functional properties, though individual efficacy can vary depending on concentration and formulation context.
How to Use
This ingredient is typically found in moisturisers, serums, and hydrating products where it works as part of the overall formulation. It's passive in use — simply apply your product as directed and allow it to absorb. It plays well with most other skincare ingredients and has no specific timing or combination requirements.
Safety & Precautions
Frequently Asked Questions
From the Clinic
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Take the skin quizRelated Ingredients
Polyglycerin-3
A lightweight humectant that draws moisture into the skin
Polyglycerin-4
A lightweight humectant that draws moisture into the skin's outer layers
Polyglycerin-6
Synthetic glycerin polymer composed of six repeating glycerin molecules | Best known for its humectant properties
Polygonum Hydropiper Extract
Plant extract with antioxidant properties used primarily as a humectant
Polylactic Acid
Biodegradable polymer for gentle physical exfoliation
Polypodium Vulgare Rhizome Extract
A fern extract traditionally used to support skin hydration and conditioning
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