POLYGLYCERYL-6 OLEATE NEW

POLYGLYCERYL-6 OLEATE is a non-ionic, ester-based surfactant and emulsifier predominantly used in the formulation of cosmetics, skincare, and personal care products. It is highly valued for its effectiveness, mildness, and its origin from renewable, often plant-derived, raw materials.

Chemical Structure and Production

The name "Polyglyceryl-6 Oleate" clearly describes its chemical composition, which is formed through an esterification reaction:

1. Polyglycerin-6: This is the hydrophilic (water-loving) part. It is a polymer created by linking six glycerol molecules together. Glycerol is a simple sugar alcohol, a natural component of all fats and oils. The "6" indicates the average chain length of this glycerol polymer, making it large enough to be an effective emulsifier.

2. Oleic Acid: This is the lipophilic (oil-loving) part. It is a common monounsaturated fatty acid, most famously found in high concentrations in olive oil (which is why it's named from the Latin oleum for oil). It provides the oil-soluble character.

By combining these two, a single molecule is created with one end that attracts water (the polyglycerol head) and one end that attracts oil (the oleic acid tail). This structure is the fundamental basis for its function as an emulsifier.

Key Functions and Properties

1. Primary Emulsifier: Its main role is to stabilize oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions. In a lotion or cream, tiny droplets of oil are dispersed throughout a water-based phase. Without an emulsifier, these droplets would quickly coalesce and separate. POLYGLYCERYL-6 OLEATE positions itself at the interface between the oil and water, reducing the surface tension and forming a stable barrier that prevents the droplets from merging. This results in a uniform, stable, and cosmetically elegant product.

2. Co-Emulsifier: It is often used in combination with other primary emulsifiers to enhance the stability, texture, and consistency of the final emulsion. It can help fine-tune the viscosity and improve the sensory feel.

3. Surfactant & Cleansing Agent: Due to its amphiphilic nature, it can also function as a very mild surfactant. It helps to lift oil and dirt from the skin's surface, allowing them to be rinsed away with water. It is much gentler than traditional sulfates, making it suitable for sensitive skin and mild cleansing products.

4. Refatting and Skin-Conditioning Agent: As an oleate ester, it has a chemical similarity to the skin's natural lipids. When used in rinse-off products, it can deposit a light, non-greasy film on the skin, helping to replenish lipids and maintain the skin's barrier function, leaving it feeling soft and conditioned rather than stripped.

Common Applications in Products

You will find POLYGLYCERYL-6 OLEATE in a wide variety of personal care formulations, including:

• Moisturizing Creams and Lotions: For face and body.

  Sunscreens: To stabilize the formula containing UV filters, which are often oily.

  Serums: Especially those containing both water-soluble and oil-soluble active ingredients.

  Mild Cleansers: Such as creamy face washes, cleansing milks, and shower gels.

  Hair Conditioners and Styling Products: To provide softness and emulsify oils.

Safety and Regulatory Status

POLYGLYCERYL-6 OLEATE is generally considered a very safe and mild ingredient. It is derived from natural sources and is biodegradable. It is approved for use in cosmetics worldwide and is often featured in formulations marketed as "natural," "green," or for sensitive skin due to its favorable safety profile and gentle nature.