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Polyglyceryl-10 Pentastearate

What Polyglyceryl-10 Pentastearate is & what it does

Polyglyceryl-10 Pentastearate is a non-ionic emulsifier formed by attaching several stearic-acid groups to a polyglycerol-10 backbone. In creams and sunscreens it helps combine the oil and water phases and stabilize the emulsion while giving a smooth, cushiony texture. It is a polyethylene-glycol-free, glyceryl-ester emulsifier often selected for milder leave-on formulas.

What does Polyglyceryl-10 Pentastearate do in skincare?

It works as a non-ionic emulsifier, helping the oil and water phases of a cream or sunscreen combine into a stable emulsion. It can also give a smooth, cushiony feel to the product. It is a polyethylene-glycol-free, glyceryl-ester emulsifier.

Is Polyglyceryl-10 Pentastearate natural or synthetic?

It is best described as semi-synthetic. It is made by combining stearic acid with a polyglycerol backbone, and these building blocks can come from plant or synthetic sources. The finished ingredient is processed rather than used in raw natural form.

Is Polyglyceryl-10 Pentastearate vegan?

It can be vegan, because its starting materials, stearic acid and glycerol, may be derived from plant oils. However, these can also come from animal fats depending on the supplier, so vegan status varies by source. Check with the brand if this matters for your choice.

Sunscreens with Polyglyceryl-10 Pentastearate

We rate 32 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

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