Polyglyceryl-6 Caprylate
Reviewed by Rosie · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: Polyglycerin-6, Ester
Gentle cleansing agent, emulsifier, and emollient | Commonly found in cleansing lotions, makeup removers, and micellar waters
Addresses
EWG Safety Score
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What Is Polyglyceryl-6 Caprylate?
Polyglyceryl-6 caprylate is used as an emollient, cleansing agent, and emulsifier in personal care product formulations. In the realm of skin care, it is most commonly found in cleansing lotions, makeup removers, and micellar waters.
Polyglyceryl-6 caprylate may be synthetically created or sourced naturally via plants. Technically speaking, it is the monoester of caprylic acid and polyglycerin-6. It’s typically part of a blend with other polyglyceryl-based ingredients where it works to solubolize lipid-based ingredients (this also explains its utility in products like micellar waters).
The 2016 Cosmetic Ingredient Review deemed polyglyceryl-6 caprylate safe as used in cosmetics, with data indicating this is a gentle, non-irritating ingredient.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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PersonalCareCouncil.org, Accessed January 2023, ePublication [URL_NOT_FOUND]
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Cosmetic Ingredient Review, November 2016, pages 1-99 [URL_NOT_FOUND]
From the Clinic
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Polyglyceryl-5 Oleate
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Polyglyceryl-6 Behenate
A synthetic emulsion stabiliser that helps bind water and oil in formulations
Polyglyceryl-6 Distearate
Made from combining an ester of stearic acid with a polymer of glycerin | Works as an oil-in-water emulsifier, and cleansing agent
Polyglyceryl-6 Isostearate
Synthetic mixture of fatty acids from stearic acids and a glycerin polymer | Functions as an emollient, emulsifier, and surfactant
Polyglyceryl-6 Octastearate
Comprised of vegetable fatty acids | Skin conditioning ingredient
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