Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate

TL;DR. This ingredient is a nonionic oil-in-water emulsifier used to build stable creams and lotions. It also improves cushion, spread, and the structure of the finished emulsion.

What does Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate do in a cosmetic formula?

This ingredient is a nonionic oil-in-water emulsifier used to build stable creams and lotions. It also improves cushion, spread, and the structure of the finished emulsion.

Is Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate clean?

From a clean-beauty perspective, it is generally well-tolerated, non-ethoxylated, and not a common restricted-list concern. Sensitivity is uncommon, though any emulsifier can be irritating in poorly balanced formulas or at high levels.

Is Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate sustainable?

This material is typically made from plant-derived sugar, glycerin, and fatty acid inputs, though the fatty acid portion can be linked to palm sourcing unless specified otherwise. It is expected to be biodegradable and has low persistence concerns compared with silicone or fluorinated materials.

Is Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate COSMOS-approved?

It is generally permitted under COSMOS natural and organic frameworks when made from approved natural-origin feedstocks using allowed processing. Its profile fits Green Chemistry reasonably well because it uses renewable inputs, ester chemistry, and a biodegradable structure.

How does Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate work chemically?

The molecule is a nonionic multi-ester built from a sugar-derived core, glycerol units, and long-chain fatty acid groups, which gives it a high-HLB profile suited to oil-in-water emulsions. Typical use is about 1 to 5 percent, often paired with fatty alcohols, gums, or waxes for viscosity and emulsion robustness across mildly acidic to neutral pH ranges.

Last updated 2026-05-13