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Polyglyceryl-6 Polyhydroxystearate

What Polyglyceryl-6 Polyhydroxystearate is & what it does

Polyglyceryl-6 Polyhydroxystearate is a polyglycerol ester used as a non-ionic emulsifier and surfactant. In sunscreens and creams it helps blend oil and water phases into a stable emulsion and can improve the spread and feel of the product. As a glycerin-based, often PEG-free emulsifier, it is common in formulas aiming for a milder, "clean" surfactant profile.

What does Polyglyceryl-6 Polyhydroxystearate do in skincare?

Polyglyceryl-6 Polyhydroxystearate is a non-ionic emulsifier and surfactant. In sunscreens and creams it helps blend oil and water into a stable emulsion and can improve spread and feel. It supports the structure and texture of the product rather than acting on the skin.

Is Polyglyceryl-6 Polyhydroxystearate safe?

Polyglyceryl-6 Polyhydroxystearate is a glycerin-based emulsifier generally regarded as low risk in cosmetics at standard levels. It is often chosen as a milder, PEG-free emulsifier option. People with known sensitivities should still review the complete product label.

Is Polyglyceryl-6 Polyhydroxystearate vegan?

This emulsifier is built from glycerin and a fatty-acid-derived component, which in cosmetic grades are commonly plant or synthetically sourced. That can make it suitable for vegan formulas, though sourcing varies by supplier. Vegan status is best confirmed on the finished product.

Sunscreens with Polyglyceryl-6 Polyhydroxystearate

We rate 36 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

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