Polyglyceryl-6 Polyhydroxystearate

Polyglyceryl-6 Polyhydroxystearate is a nonionic polyglycerol ester made from glycerin and polyhydroxystearic acid. It stabilizes water-in-oil emulsions, wets pigments, and leaves a smooth, conditioned finish in color cosmetics and rich creams.
Like this ingredient?

Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
An emulsifier that helps makeup apply smoothly with fewer patches.
Category
Emulsifying, Skin Conditioning
Type
Emulsifier

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Great

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Promotes even application with a comfortable, non-greasy skin feel. Helps makeup look smoother with fewer patches.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Common in cream foundations, oil-rich sunscreens, and balm cleansers to support uniform laydown. Also used in tinted balms where a cushioned glide is desired.

Comedogenic Rating

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

Safety

Generally well tolerated, with a low likelihood of irritation for most users. Very sensitive skin may experience mild transient redness; patch testing is prudent for leave-on use. No specific regulatory restrictions are commonly cited for cosmetic use.

Is Polyglyceryl-6 Polyhydroxystearate a Good Ingredient?

Great rating because it reliably builds stable water-in-oil systems and disperses pigments well, with a nonionic structure linked to low irritation potential. It is also chemically stable in high-oil formulas, supporting consistent performance over wear.

Related Ingredients