Polyglyceryl-4 Stearate

1. What is it?

Polyglyceryl-4 Stearate is a non-ionic emulsifier derived from polyglycerin-4 and stearic acid. It is commonly plant-derived and widely used in PEG-free, skin-friendly cosmetic formulations.

2. Functions / Benefits

• 🔬 Emulsifying agent: Helps oil and water phases blend into a stable emulsion

• 🧪 Formula stabilizer: Prevents separation

• ✨ Texture enhancer: Provides a smooth, lightweight skin feel

• 🌱 Suitable for clean beauty / natural formulations

3. How it is used

• Product types: Creams, lotions, cleansers, sunscreens, makeup base products

• Phase: Oil phase

• Typical usage level: 1–5%, depending on formulation design

• Often combined with co-emulsifiers for improved stability

4. Precautions

• ⚠️ Do not confuse with:

  • Glyceryl Stearate

  • Polyglyceryl-6 or Polyglyceryl-10 Stearate
    → different polyglycerin numbers = different ingredients

• Generally well tolerated, but comedogenicity depends on the entire formula

• Not an active skincare ingredient; it plays a functional role

5. Safety profile

• Low irritation risk

• Non-preservative

• Free from PEGs, sulfates, and silicones

References

• PCPC – International Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary & Handbook

• EU CosIng Database

• SpecialChem – Cosmetic emulsifiers technical documentation

• Supplier technical datasheets (vegetable-derived polyglyceryl esters)