Quick answer
Used for its emulsification properties; Allows oil and water to mix and stay blended in cosmetic formulas; Improves skin care products’ texture; Formed through the esterification of polyglycerol-6 and lauric acid
Polyglyceryl-6 Laurate
Updated
1,2,3-Propanetriol, homopolymer, dodecanoates (1:1) (6 mol glycerol average molar ratio)
Purpose
Texture-enhancing ingredient that works to emulsify formulations so they’re cohesive and smooth.
Rating
GOOD
Category
Emulsifier
INCI Purpose
SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING
Alternative Names
At a Glance
Used for its emulsification properties
Allows oil and water to mix and stay blended in cosmetic formulas
Improves skin care products’ texture
Formed through the esterification of polyglycerol-6 and lauric acid
Article
Polyglyceryl-6 laurate is an emulsifier used in skin care and cosmetic formulations to help mix oil- and water-based ingredients in formulas. By aiding an emulsion, this ingredient helps create smooth, uniform textures in skin care products, preventing separation of the oil and water phases. Without emulsifiers, skin care products would have irregular textures.
This hard-working emulsifier is created through the esterification of polyglyceryl-6 and lauric acid, a fatty acid often found in coconut oil and other natural fats. It’s both plant-derived and synthetic.
When reviewing polyglyceryl fatty acid esters, the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel found polyglyceryl-6 laurate safe for use in cosmetics dependent upon use that aligned with present polyglyceryl fatty acid ester practices.
It’s often used in blends with other emulsifiers or to help solubilize certain antioxidants, such as resveratrol and glutathione. On its own, usage levels of polyglyceryl-6 laurate range from 1–5%.
See: Glycereth-6 Laurate, Glycerol
References