Polyglyceryl-6 Stearate is an ester compound formed by the reaction of stearic acid (a long-chain saturated fatty acid) with Polyglyceryl-6. This ingredient is valued for its excellent emulsifying, moisturizing, and skin-conditioning properties, making it useful in various cosmetic and personal care products.

Chemical Composition and Structure

Polyglyceryl-6 Stearate consists of:

Stearic Acid: A long-chain saturated fatty acid known for its emollient and skin-conditioning properties.
Polyglyceryl-6: A polymer of glycerin with six glycerol units, providing excellent moisturizing and emulsifying capabilities.

Physical Properties

Polyglyceryl-6 Stearate is typically a solid or semi-solid substance with a light to dark yellow color and a mild, neutral aroma. It is both water-dispersible and oil-soluble, making it a versatile ingredient in emulsions and various cosmetic formulations.

Production Process

Synthesis of Polyglyceryl-6: Glycerin is polymerized to form Polyglyceryl-6.
Reaction with Stearic Acid: Polyglyceryl-6 is esterified with stearic acid under controlled conditions to form Polyglyceryl-6 Stearate.
Purification: The resulting product is purified to remove any unreacted materials or impurities.
Quality Control: Rigorous quality tests are conducted to evaluate the purity, stability, and composition of the final product, including chemical and microbiological analyses.

Applications

Cosmetic Products: Used in creams, lotions, serums, and emulsions for its emulsifying, moisturizing, and skin-conditioning properties.
Skin Care: Ideal for formulations aimed at hydrating, protecting, and conditioning the skin due to its combined benefits of stearic acid and Polyglyceryl-6.
Hair Care: Incorporated into shampoos, conditioners, and treatments for its ability to nourish and condition hair while improving product texture and spreadability.
Personal Care Products: Used in body washes, cleansers, and other personal care items for its emulsifying and hydrating effects.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

Polyglyceryl-6 Stearate is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic and personal care products. It is non-toxic and non-irritating to the skin. Sustainable sourcing of stearic acid and glycerin is important to ensure the environmental impact is minimized.

INCI


Skin conditioning agent - Emollient. Emollients have the characteristic of enhancing the skin barrier through a source of exogenous lipids that adhere to the skin, improving barrier properties by filling gaps in intercorneocyte clusters to improve hydration while protecting against inflammation. In practice, they have the ability to create a barrier that prevents transepidermal water loss. Emollients are described as degreasing or refreshing additives that improve the lipid content of the upper layers of the skin by preventing degreasing and drying of the skin. The problem with emollients is that many have a strong lipophilic character and are identified as occlusive ingredients; they are oily and fatty materials that remain on the skin surface and reduce transepidermal water loss. In cosmetics, emollients and moisturisers are often considered synonymous with humectants and occlusives.
Synonyms:

CAS: 95461-65-7