Polyglyceryl-6 Isostearate
Reviewed by Daisy · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: ISOOCTADECANOIC ACID, MONOESTER WITH 1, 2, 3-PROPANETRIOL, HOMOPOLYMER, ISOOCTADECANOATES (1:1) (6 MOL GLYCEROL AVERAGE MOLAR RATIO)
Synthetic mixture of fatty acids from stearic acids and a glycerin polymer | Functions as an emollient, emulsifier, and surfactant
Addresses
EWG Safety Score
What Is Polyglyceryl-6 Isostearate?
Polyglyceryl-6 isostearate is a synthetic mixture of fatty acids from stearic acids and a glycerin polymer. Multiple roles in cosmetics include emollient, emulsifier, and surfactant, making it a good choice for hydrating cleansers.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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International Journal of Toxicology, Supplement 3, November-December 2019, pages 6S-22S [https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1091581819883820]
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International Journal of Pharmaceutics, March 2008, pages 231-239 [https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378517307008770]
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https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/Polyglyceryl%20fatty%20acid_CIR.pdf
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https://cosmeticsinfo.org/ingredient/stearic-acid
From the Clinic
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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 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 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
Polyglyceryl-6 Olivate
A plant-derived emulsifier that helps blend oil and water in formulations
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