What it is
This is a polyester made by reacting diglycerol with adipic acid and fatty acids, giving a soft, waxy emollient with a structure related to skin's own lipids. It provides a cushiony, moisturizing feel, helps reduce moisture loss, and improves the spread and adhesion of mineral sunscreens. It is often used to disperse and coat inorganic UV filters and pigments for a smoother, less powdery finish.
Safety & warnings
As a skin-identical-type ester it is generally well tolerated and considered low-irritation. It is an emollient lipid, so users who are highly acne-prone may wish to monitor it in heavy formulas; it is not a recognized fragrance allergen.
Origin & sourcing
Synthetic ester derived from glycerol-based polyols, adipic acid, and fatty acids that may be of vegetable origin.
Questions everyone asks
What does this ingredient feel like on skin?
It gives a soft, cushiony, moisturizing feel and helps mineral sunscreens spread more smoothly with less of a powdery finish.
Is it the same as glycerin?
No. It is a larger ester built partly from glycerol-derived polyols and fatty acids, and it acts as an emollient rather than a humectant.