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Polyglyceryl-6 Octastearate

What Polyglyceryl-6 Octastearate is & what it does

Polyglyceryl-6 Octastearate is an ester of stearic acid and polyglycerin, belonging to the polyglyceryl family of nonionic surfactants. In skincare and sunscreen formulas it acts mainly as an emulsifier, helping blend oil and water phases into a stable cream or lotion. A notable property is its mild, plant-derivable profile, which makes it a common choice for gentle emulsion systems.

What does Polyglyceryl-6 Octastearate do in skincare?

Polyglyceryl-6 Octastearate acts mainly as an emulsifier. It helps blend oil and water phases into a stable cream or lotion and can also condition the skin surface. It is a common choice for gentle emulsion systems.

Is Polyglyceryl-6 Octastearate natural or synthetic?

It is best described as a processed ingredient with plant-derivable origins. It is made by joining polyglycerin with stearic acid, both of which can be sourced from vegetable oils, through an esterification step. The result is a synthesized ester rather than a raw natural material.

Is Polyglyceryl-6 Octastearate comedogenic?

Polyglyceryl esters are generally regarded as mild and are not widely flagged as strongly comedogenic. It is used at functional levels as an emulsifier rather than a heavy oil. Individual skin can vary, so those very acne-prone may wish to see how their skin responds.

Sunscreens with Polyglyceryl-6 Octastearate

We rate 14 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

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