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Polyglycerin-4

What Polyglycerin-4 is & what it does

Polyglycerin-4 is a synthetic polymer made of four glycerin units, used as a humectant and solvent in skincare and sunscreen formulas. It helps draw and hold water in the product and on the skin, giving a hydrating feel without a heavy, sticky finish. It is also used to help blend and carry other ingredients within a formula.

What does Polyglycerin-4 do in skincare?

Polyglycerin-4 is a humectant and solvent made of four glycerin units. It helps draw and hold water in the product and on the skin for a hydrating feel without a heavy, sticky finish, and it can help blend and carry other ingredients.

Is Polyglycerin-4 safe?

Polyglycerin-4 is a glycerin-based ingredient widely used as a humectant and is generally considered well tolerated and non-irritating at cosmetic levels. It is a common choice in hydrating and sensitive-skin formulas, though individual reactions are always possible.

Is Polyglycerin-4 natural or synthetic?

Polyglycerin-4 is typically described as synthetic or nature-derived, since it is made by linking glycerin units that can themselves come from plant sources. The exact origin of the glycerin depends on the supplier.

Sunscreens with Polyglycerin-4

We rate 9 sunscreens that contain it:

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