Polyglyceryl-4 Laurate is formed by 1,2,3-Propanetriol, homopolymer, dodecanoates (1:1) (4 mol glycerol average molar ratio). This compound is widely used in the cosmetic industry for its emulsifying, conditioning, and moisturizing properties, enhancing various skincare and haircare products.

Chemical Composition and Structure

Polyglyceryl-4 Laurate combines the beneficial properties of Polyglycerin-4, known for its excellent emulsifying and hydrating capabilities, with lauric acid, which provides rich emollient and nourishing properties. The resulting esters improve the stability of emulsions and offer superior conditioning and moisturizing benefits for the skin and hair.

Physical Properties

Polyglyceryl-4 Laurate typically appears as a viscous or semi-solid substance, with a color ranging from clear to pale yellow. It is soluble in oils and has limited water solubility, making it ideal for use in various cosmetic formulations. It contributes to a rich, non-greasy texture, enhancing the sensory experience of cosmetic products.

Production Process

Esterification: The production involves the esterification of lauric acid with Polyglycerin-4. This process requires precise control of reaction conditions to ensure the formation of stable and effective esters.
Purification: Following esterification, the product undergoes extensive purification to remove any unreacted materials and by-products, ensuring its purity and suitability for cosmetic use.
Quality Control: Rigorous testing is conducted on the final product to assess its purity, stability, and performance in various cosmetic formulations. These tests often include evaluations of emulsion stability, viscosity, and compatibility with other cosmetic ingredients.

Applications

Cosmetic Products: Widely used in creams, lotions, and serums for its emulsifying and moisturizing properties, improving the texture and feel of the product on the skin.
Skin Care: Ideal for moisturizing and nourishing products, providing a smooth and enriching feel to the skin due to its emollient properties.
Hair Care: Incorporated into conditioners and hair masks, contributing to the nourishment, softening, and conditioning of the hair.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

Polyglyceryl-4 Laurate is considered safe for use in cosmetic products and is generally well-tolerated by the skin. It is non-irritating and suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Proper use within recommended concentrations is essential to ensure safety and maximize effectiveness. Additionally, the sustainability of lauric acid sources, often derived from vegetable oils, is an important consideration to ensure environmental responsibility.

INCI


Surfactant - Emulsifying agent. Emulsions are thermodynamically unstable and are used to soothe or soften the skin and emulsify, so they need a specific, stabilising ingredient. This ingredient forms a film, lowers the surface tension and makes two immiscible liquids miscible. A very important factor affecting the stability of the emulsion is the amount of the emulsifying agent. Emulsifiers have the property of reducing the oil/water or water/oil interfacial tension, improving the stability of the emulsion and also directly influencing the stability, sensory properties and surface tension of sunscreens by modulating the filmometric performance.
Synonyms:

CAS: 75798-42-4