Description

Polyglyceryl-2 Tetrastearate is a chemical compound that is a mixture of tetraesters of diglycerol and stearic acid. This compound is used in the cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and personal care industries for its emulsifying, moisturizing, and conditioning properties.

Chemical Composition and Structure

Polyglyceryl-2 Tetrastearate is composed of ester bonds formed by the reaction of stearic acid with diglycerol. The esterification process results in a compound that includes tetraesters, where diglycerol forms esters with four molecules of stearic acid, creating a stable tetrastearate mixture.

Physical Properties

Polyglyceryl-2 Tetrastearate typically appears as a white to slightly yellow solid or semi-solid, depending on the specific composition and processing methods used. It has a mild, neutral aroma and is soluble in oils and organic solvents but has limited solubility in water. The compound's structure allows it to act as an effective emulsifier, moisturizer, and conditioner, enhancing the texture and stability of cosmetic formulations.

Production Process

Synthesis of Diglycerol: Glycerol is polymerized to produce diglycerol, a polymer containing two glycerol units.
Preparation of Stearic Acid: Stearic acid is obtained from natural sources such as animal fats and vegetable oils.
Esterification: Diglycerol is reacted with stearic acid in the presence of a catalyst. The esterification process links the carboxyl groups of stearic acid with the hydroxyl groups of diglycerol, forming the tetraesters.
Purification: The resulting Polyglyceryl-2 Tetrastearate is purified to remove any unreacted materials and by-products, ensuring a high-quality final product.
Quality Control: Rigorous quality tests are conducted to evaluate the purity, stability, and composition of the tetrastearate, including chemical and microbiological analyses.

Applications

Cosmetic Products: Used in creams, lotions, and emulsions for its emulsifying and moisturizing properties, enhancing the texture and stability of the formulations.
Skin Care: Ideal for products aimed at providing moisturizing and protective benefits due to its ability to improve skin barrier function and reduce water loss.
Hair Care: Incorporated into shampoos, conditioners, and styling products for its ability to condition and moisturize the hair.
Pharmaceutical Products: Utilized in various formulations for its solubilizing and stabilizing properties, enhancing the delivery and stability of active ingredients.
Personal Care Products: Used in body washes, soaps, and other personal care items for its emulsifying and moisturizing effects.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

Polyglyceryl-2 Tetrastearate is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and personal care products. It is non-irritating and suitable for all skin types. Proper use within recommended concentrations is essential to ensure safety and maximize effectiveness. Efforts to source raw materials sustainably and to use environmentally friendly production methods are important to mitigate any potential environmental impact.

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: 72347-89-8