What it is
Polyglyceryl-4 olivate is made by esterifying polyglycerin-4 with the fatty acids of olive oil, yielding a non-ionic, PEG-free emulsifier. It helps disperse oil and water phases into stable creams and lotions and contributes a soft after-feel. It is commonly chosen for naturally positioned and PEG-free formulations.
Safety & warnings
Polyglyceryl esters of this type are generally well tolerated and are widely used in leave-on and rinse-off products. As a mild non-ionic emulsifier it carries low irritation potential.
Origin & sourcing
Produced from plant-derived olive oil fatty acids reacted with polyglycerin, which itself is obtained from glycerin; it is therefore largely of vegetable origin though manufactured through synthetic esterification.
Questions everyone asks
What does polyglyceryl-4 olivate do in a sunscreen?
It acts as a PEG-free emulsifier, keeping the oil and water phases blended so the product spreads evenly and feels smooth.
Is polyglyceryl-4 olivate derived from olives?
Yes. Its fatty acid portion comes from olive oil, combined with polyglycerin to form the ester.