Polyglyceryl-2 Isostearate is a chemical compound that is a mixture of monoesters and diesters of diglycerol and isostearic 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 Isostearate is composed of ester bonds formed by the reaction of isostearic acid with diglycerol. The esterification process results in a compound that includes both monoesters and diesters, where diglycerol forms esters with isostearic acid, creating a stable isostearate mixture.

Physical Properties

Polyglyceryl-2 Isostearate 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 Isostearic Acid: Isostearic acid is obtained from the branching and hydrogenation of oleic acid or through chemical processes.
Esterification: Diglycerol is reacted with isostearic acid in the presence of a catalyst. The esterification process links the carboxyl groups of isostearic acid with the hydroxyl groups of diglycerol, forming the monoesters and diesters.
Purification: The resulting Polyglyceryl-2 Isostearate 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 isostearate, 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 Isostearate 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: 73296-86-3 81752-33-2 EC number 277-361-8