Polyglyceryl-2 Sesquicaprylate

Polyglyceryl-2 Sesquicaprylate is a nonionic surfactant produced by esterifying caprylic acid with a short-chain polyglycerin backbone. It emulsifies and disperses oils in water-based systems, boosts rinse-off, and gives a light, clean skin feel.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
An emulsifier that lifts oil and grime for a clean, light feel.
Category
Emulsifying
Type
Emulsifier

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Great

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Helps lift oils and impurities while leaving skin soft and comfortable. Promotes a lightweight, non-greasy afterfeel in rinse-off and leave-on formulas.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Often included in milky cleansers, micellar waters, gentle face washes, and fluid moisturizers to uniformly blend oily components into water-based products.

Comedogenic Rating

This ingredient is not typically evaluated for comedogenicity, and no standardized rating is available.

Safety

Generally well tolerated with low irritancy; very sensitive users may experience mild stinging, especially around the eye area in cleanser formats. No specific regulatory restrictions noted.

Is Polyglyceryl-2 Sesquicaprylate a Good Ingredient?

Great rating because this nonionic polyglyceryl ester reliably solubilizes/emulsifies oils, maintains good stability across typical formulation conditions, and shows a low irritation profile in rinse-off and leave-on use.