What it is
Polyglyceryl-6 pentaoleate is made by esterifying polyglycerin-6 with multiple oleic acid units, producing a lipophilic non-ionic emulsifier. It is used to build and stabilize oil-rich and water-in-oil emulsions and can also serve as a dispersing aid for pigments and mineral filters. It leaves a smooth, conditioned after-feel.
Safety & warnings
Polyglyceryl oleate esters are generally well tolerated in cosmetic products. The oleic acid base makes it a rich, emollient material, so very high concentrations may feel heavy on oil-prone skin.
Origin & sourcing
Synthesized from oleic acid, sourceable from plant or animal lipids, combined with polyglycerin derived from glycerin.
Questions everyone asks
What is the difference between polyglyceryl-4 and polyglyceryl-6 pentaoleate?
They use polyglycerin chains of different lengths, which shifts solubility and emulsifying behavior; both are PEG-free oleic acid esters.
What does it do in a sunscreen?
It emulsifies oil and water phases and can help disperse mineral filters, supporting an even, smooth product.