Polyglyceryl-6 Ricinoleate
Reviewed by Daisy · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: Polyglyceryl-6 Polyricinoleate, Glycerin
Ester of polyglyceryl-6 and ricinoleic acid | Serves as an emollient and surfactant
Addresses
EWG Safety Score
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What Is Polyglyceryl-6 Ricinoleate?
Polyglyceryl-6 ricinoleate is an ester of polyglyceryl-6 and ricinoleic acid. Polyglyceryl-6 is a polymerized form of glycerin, while ricinoleic acid is a type of fatty acid that makes up the majority of the fatty acid content found in castor oil.
In cosmetics, polyglyceryl-6 serves several functions, including acting as an emollient, surfactant, emulsifier, and skin conditioning ingredient. It also helps to solubilize oils, creating more uniform product textures, and keeping ingredients from separating.
The independent Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel has ruled polyglyceryl-6 ricinoleate safe in its current usage in cosmetics. The use level is typically between 1–5%, depending on the desired role in the formula.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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PubChem, Website, Accessed October 2025 [https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Polyglyceryl-6%20ricinoleate]
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CoSmile Europe, Website, Accessed October 2025 [https://cosmileeurope.eu/inci/detail/12273/polyglyceryl-6-ricinoleate]
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SpecialChem, Website, Accessed October 2025 [https://www.specialchem.com/cosmetics/inci-ingredients/polyglyceryl-6-ricinoleate]
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International Journal of Toxicology, August 2023, pages 5S-101S [https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/10915818231174440]
From the Clinic
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These appear on ingredients lists under different names but are the same substance. Polyglyceryl-6 Ricinoleate is the common form.
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