Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate

Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate is an oil-soluble nonionic emulsifier produced by reacting polyglycerin with isostearic acid. It stabilizes water-in-oil systems, wets and disperses pigments, and improves spreadability in color cosmetics and balms.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
An emulsifier that helps color cosmetics apply smoothly and evenly.
Category
Emulsifying, Skin Conditioning
Type
Emulsifier

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Good

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Promotes even color laydown and a smooth glide in makeup. Helps keep rich, water-repellent textures uniform and comfortable on skin.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Used in lipsticks, cream foundations, and cream blushes to improve application and stability. Also found in balm cleansers and water-resistant sunscreens to maintain consistency.

Comedogenic Rating

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

Safety

Typically well tolerated with minimal irritation risk; avoid use on broken skin and discontinue if redness occurs. Heavier W/O textures it enables may feel occlusive for very oily skin types. No known broad regulatory restrictions in cosmetics.

Is Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate a Good Ingredient?

It's an effective oil-soluble emulsifier that stabilizes water-in-oil systems and wets pigments well, improving spread and payoff with generally low irritation potential, which earns it a Good rating. Its performance is reliable across color cosmetics and balms without requiring high use levels.