Polyglyceryl-6 Caprylate/Caprate is a chemical compound formed by the esterification of Polyglyceryl-6 with a mixture of caprylic acid and capric 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-6 Caprylate/Caprate is composed of Polyglyceryl-6, which is a polymer of glycerol containing six glycerol units, esterified with a mixture of caprylic acid (C8) and capric acid (C10). The resulting structure includes multiple ester bonds, providing stability and functionality in formulations.
Physical Properties
Polyglyceryl-6 Caprylate/Caprate typically appears as a clear to slightly yellow liquid. 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 Polyglyceryl-6: Glycerol is polymerized to produce Polyglyceryl-6, a polymer containing six glycerol units.
Esterification with Caprylic and Capric Acid: Polyglyceryl-6 is esterified with a mixture of caprylic and capric acids in the presence of a catalyst to form Polyglyceryl-6 Caprylate/Caprate.
Purification: The resulting ester 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 ester, 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-6 Caprylate/Caprate 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
Light stabilizer. It prevents light from degrading light-sensitive components and slows down degradation reactions that have already begun. The mechanism is, in a way, similar to antioxidants and the effectiveness depends on the.complexity of the formulation and the density of the product.
Surfactant - Cleansing agent. Cosmetic products used to cleanse the skin utilise the surface-active action that produces a lowering of the surface tension of the stratum corneum, facilitating the removal of dirt and impurities.
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