Emulsifier

Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate

Reviewed by Kate · Last updated 18 Aug 2026

Functions as an emollient | Can also be a surfactant

At a glance

May feed Fungal Acne

Addresses

Dehydration

What Is Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate?

The ester of isostearic acid and polyglycerin-4 that functions as an emollient and can also be a surfactant.

How widely it's used

1.3%
of skincare products contain this ingredient — placing it in the top 50% of most-used ingredients.
Most common in: Sunscreens Moisturisers

Regulatory information

Standardised cosmetic-ingredient identifiers used by regulators.

Show identifiers
INCI Name
POLYGLYCERYL-4 ISOSTEARATE
EC Number
-
Function
Emulsifying

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