Polyglyceryl-4 Oleate

Polyglyceryl-4 Oleate is an oil-dispersible polyglyceryl ester of oleic acid. It emulsifies and solubilizes oils, improves spread in anhydrous bases, wets pigments, and supports gentle makeup removal in cleansers and balms.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
An emulsifier that loosens makeup and sunscreen for easy removal.
Category
Emulsifying, Cleansing
Type
Emulsifier

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Great

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Boosts slip to loosen makeup, sunscreen, and debris for effortless removal. Leaves a soft, non-greasy afterfeel on skin.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Common in oil-to-milk cleansers, cleansing balms, and color cosmetics such as liquid foundations and lip colors to aid dispersion and smooth application.

Comedogenic Rating

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

Safety

Considered low irritation for most users; very sensitive skin may notice mild discomfort at higher levels or prolonged leave-on exposure. Texture is richer, which some may find heavy. No specific regulatory limitations commonly cited.

Is Polyglyceryl-4 Oleate a Good Ingredient?

Great rating due to its effective oil-solubilizing and makeup-removing capability, stable nonionic profile, and typically low irritation in both rinse-off and anhydrous systems. Its performance is well established for improving slip and gentle cleansing without harsh surfactant effects.