Polyglyceryl-6 Distearate
Reviewed by Emma · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Made from combining an ester of stearic acid with a polymer of glycerin | Works as an oil-in-water emulsifier, and cleansing agent
Addresses
EWG Safety Score
What Is Polyglyceryl-6 Distearate?
Polyglyceryl-6 distearate is a gentle, synthetic emollient, emulsifier, and cleansing agent which gives it a wide range of use in cosmetics, including baby care products. It may be animal-derived, but most suppliers create this synthetically, which is the type uses.
Chemically, polyglyceryl-6 distearate is made from a diester (a compound containing two ester groups; an ester is a compound formed from reacting organic acids and an alcohol or polyol) of the fatty acid stearic acid combined with a polymer of glycerin. Aesthetically, it lends a soft, powdery finish to cosmetics.
Usage levels in leave-on cosmetics tend to be between 4–5%, although amounts upwards of 22% have been used in lipsticks. It has been evaluated by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Board and is considered safe as used in cosmetics, including those formulated for use near the eyes, such as mascara
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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Cosmetics, October 2018, pages 1–11 [URL not found]
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International Journal of Pharmaceutics, March 2011, pages 163–172 [URL not found]
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https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/PGlyFE092016FR.pdf [https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/PGlyFE092016FR.pdf]
From the Clinic
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Polyglyceryl-5 Oleate
An emulsifier derived from plant oils that stabilises oil and water in formulations
Polyglyceryl-6 Behenate
A synthetic emulsion stabiliser that helps bind water and oil in formulations
Polyglyceryl-6 Caprylate
Gentle cleansing agent, emulsifier, and emollient | Commonly found in cleansing lotions, makeup removers, and micellar waters
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
Polyglyceryl-6 Oleate
The ester of oleic acid and humectant polyglycerin-6 | Versatile performance as an emollient, surfactant and emulsifier
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