Polyglyceryl-3 Ricinoleate ●
TL;DR. This ingredient is a nonionic emulsifier and co-emulsifier, especially useful for water-in-oil systems, pigment dispersion, and improving the feel of oil-rich formulas. It helps keep water droplets or solid particles evenly distributed in a lipid phase.
What does Polyglyceryl-3 Ricinoleate do in a cosmetic formula?
This ingredient is a nonionic emulsifier and co-emulsifier, especially useful for water-in-oil systems, pigment dispersion, and improving the feel of oil-rich formulas. It helps keep water droplets or solid particles evenly distributed in a lipid phase.
Is Polyglyceryl-3 Ricinoleate clean?
It is generally well tolerated and is not a common clean-standard restricted-list issue. Quality depends on controlling residual catalysts, free fatty acids, and other processing traces, which are routine supplier specifications.
Is Polyglyceryl-3 Ricinoleate sustainable?
This material is typically made from vegetable glycerin and castor-derived fatty acids, so it can be based on renewable feedstocks. It is expected to be biodegradable as an ester-based surfactant, with sourcing quality tied to agricultural practices and traceability.
Is Polyglyceryl-3 Ricinoleate COSMOS-approved?
It is generally permitted under COSMOS-natural and can be used in COSMOS-organic formulas when the feedstocks and processing meet the standard. Its renewable origin, ester chemistry, and biodegradability fit Green Chemistry principles well, though supplier documentation matters.
How does Polyglyceryl-3 Ricinoleate work chemically?
The molecule is a nonionic ester that links a short glycerol oligomer to a hydroxylated C18 fatty acid, giving it a polar head group and a bulky oil-compatible tail. Typical use is about 0.5% to 5% as a co-emulsifier or dispersant, with stability across normal cosmetic pH ranges and good compatibility with oils, waxes, and mineral pigments.
Last updated 2026-05-13