Polyglyceryl-2 Sesquioleate

Polyglyceryl-2 sesquioleate is a nonionic emulsifier and mild surfactant created from polyglycerin and oleic acid. It solubilizes oils, stabilizes water-in-oil systems, and enables gentle makeup removal in oil-based cleansers and balms.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
A mild emulsifier used in cleansing balms to dissolve makeup gently.
Category
Emulsifying, Cleansing
Type
Emulsifier

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Good

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Helps break down waterproof makeup and excess sebum while remaining mild on skin. Leaves a comfortable afterfeel, minimizing post-cleanse tightness.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Common in oil cleansers, balm cleansers, and creamy makeup-removal formulas. Also found in micellar oils and rinse-off cleansing butters.

Comedogenic Rating

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

Safety

Generally low irritation, though as a surfactant it may cause brief stinging on compromised or very sensitive skin, especially near eyes. Patch testing is prudent for reactive users.

Is Polyglyceryl-2 Sesquioleate a Good Ingredient?

Rated Good because it efficiently solubilizes oils and removes makeup with typically low irritation. Evidence centers on cleansing and emulsification performance rather than direct skin repair benefits.

Products with Polyglyceryl-2 Sesquioleate

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