Quick answer
Made from combining an ester of stearic acid with a type of glycerin; Works as an emollient, emulsifier, and cleansing agent; Lends a soft, powdery finish to cosmetics; May be animal-derived or synthetic Key benefits: Hydration.
Polyglyceryl-6 Distearate
Updated
diester of hexaglycerol and stearic acid
Purpose
Versatile animal-derived or synthetic ingredient that adds emolliency, helps keep unlike ingredients together and also aids the cleansing process.
Rating
GOOD
Category
Emollient, Emulsifier, Cleansing Agent
INCI Purpose
SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING
Benefits
Alternative Names
At a Glance
Made from combining an ester of stearic acid with a type of glycerin
Works as an emollient, emulsifier, and cleansing agent
Lends a soft, powdery finish to cosmetics
May be animal-derived or synthetic
Article
Polyglyceryl-6 distearate is a gentle, synthetic emollient, emulsifier, and cleansing agent which gives it a wide range of use in cosmetics, including baby care products. It may be animal-derived, but most suppliers create this synthetically, which is the type Paula’s Choice Skincare uses.
Chemically, polyglyceryl-6 distearate is made from a diester (a compound containing two ester groups; an ester is a compound formed from reacting acids and alcohols) of the fatty acid stearic acid combined with a polymer of glycerin. Aesthetically, it lends a soft, powdery finish to cosmetics.
Usage levels in leave-on cosmetics tend to be between 4–5%, although amounts upwards of 22% have been used in lipsticks. It has been evaluated by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Board and is considered safe as used in cosmetics, including those formulated for use near the eyes, such as mascara
References