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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Snapshot

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

Ratings

Overall Rating

Good

Comedogenic Risk

None

Not typically evaluated for comedogenicity — no standardized rating available.

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.

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.

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.