Polyglycerin ●
TL;DR. This ingredient is primarily a humectant and water-binding agent, helping formulas hold moisture and improve skin feel. It can also support solvent systems and reduce tackiness in water-based products.
What does Polyglycerin do in a cosmetic formula?
This ingredient is primarily a humectant and water-binding agent, helping formulas hold moisture and improve skin feel. It can also support solvent systems and reduce tackiness in water-based products.
Is Polyglycerin clean?
From a clean-beauty perspective, it is generally well tolerated, low in irritation potential, and not a common restricted-list concern. The main quality question is feedstock and residual processing impurities, which reputable suppliers control through cosmetic-grade specifications.
Is Polyglycerin sustainable?
This material is commonly made from renewable plant-based feedstocks, though petrochemical sourcing is also possible depending on the supplier. It is water soluble and expected to be biodegradable, with low concern for environmental persistence.
Is Polyglycerin COSMOS-approved?
It is generally compatible with COSMOS-natural and COSMOS-organic frameworks when made from approved natural-origin feedstocks using permitted processing. Its Green Chemistry profile is strongest when renewable feedstock, efficient processing, and low residual catalysts are documented.
How does Polyglycerin work chemically?
The molecule is a hydrophilic, ether-linked oligomer or polymer built from repeating three-carbon triol units, which explains its strong water affinity and nonionic behavior. It is typically used around 1 to 10%, is stable across common cosmetic pH ranges, and pairs well with other humectants, polymers, and emulsifier systems.
Last updated 2026-05-15