Polyglyceryl-3 Polyricinoleate

Polyglyceryl-3 Polyricinoleate is a plant-based polyglycerol ester from castor oil fatty acids, used as an emulsifier. It's used to build stable oil dispersions and maintain fluid textures in creams, lip products, and other formulations.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
A castor-oil emulsifier that makes rich formulas easier to spread.
Category
Emulsifying
Type
Emulsifier

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Good

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Improves spreadability of rich or oily formulas and can lessen a heavy, greasy sensation. Helps color cosmetics look more uniform on application.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Common in lipsticks, lip balms, and glosses to keep textures smooth and consistent, as well as in creamy lotions and butters. Also appears in balm sticks and solid makeup to maintain a supple glide.

Comedogenic Rating

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

Safety

Considered low risk for irritation in leave-on and lip products, though high concentrations may cause mild discomfort on mucosa or very sensitive skin. Those with known castor oil sensitivities should use caution.

Is Polyglyceryl-3 Polyricinoleate a Good Ingredient?

Rated Good for its effective low-HLB emulsification and pigment dispersion that improve uniformity without heavy feel. It’s typically well tolerated, with limited evidence of issues beyond rare sensitivity to castor-derived materials.