Polyglyceryl-6 Distearate

Polyglyceryl-6 Distearate at a Glance

• Made from combining an ester of stearic acid with a type of glycerin
• Works as an emollient, emulsifier, and cleansing agent
• Lends a soft, powdery finish to cosmetics
• May be animal-derived or synthetic

Polyglyceryl-6 Distearate Description

Polyglyceryl-6 distearate is a gentle, synthetic emollient, emulsifier, and cleansing agent which gives it a wide range of use in cosmetics, including baby care products. It may be animal-derived, but most suppliers create this synthetically, which is the type Paula’s Choice Skincare uses.

Chemically, polyglyceryl-6 distearate is made from a diester (a compound containing two ester groups; an ester is a compound formed from reacting acids and alcohols) of the fatty acid stearic acid combined with a polymer of glycerin. Aesthetically, it lends a soft, powdery finish to cosmetics.

Usage levels in leave-on cosmetics tend to be between 4–5%, although amounts upwards of 22% have been used in lipsticks. It has been evaluated by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Board and is considered safe as used in cosmetics, including those formulated for use near the eyes, such as mascara

Polyglyceryl-6 Distearate References