Polyglycerol Oleate (PGO) Emulsifier

Polyglycerol Oleate – Versatile Non-Ionic Emulsifier for Cosmetics, Personal Care, and Food

Basic Information

• INCI Name: Polyglycerol Oleate (various grades, e.g., Polyglyceryl-2 Oleate, Polyglyceryl-3 Oleate, Polyglyceryl-6 Oleate)

• Appearance: Pale yellow to amber viscous liquid or waxy solid (depending on degree of polymerization)

• Solubility: Dispersible in oils and organic solvents; soluble in water (depending on HLB)

• Storage: Store in tightly sealed containers in a cool, dry place, protected from light and moisture

Overview
Polyglycerol oleate is a complex ester mixture produced by the reaction between polyglycerin (an oligomer of glycerol) and oleic acid. Depending on the degree of polymerization and the number of oleate groups attached, polyglycerol oleates can range from hydrophilic to lipophilic, providing flexibility in formulation design. These non-ionic emulsifiers are valued for their excellent emulsifying, dispersing, and stabilizing properties, as well as their mildness and biocompatibility.

Key Properties

• Non-ionic – compatible with a wide range of ingredients and pH levels.

• Amphiphilic – reduces interfacial tension, stabilizing both O/W and W/O emulsions.

• Good skin compatibility and mildness – suitable for sensitive skin.

• Biocompatible and low toxicity – safe for topical and oral applications.

• Biodegradable and derived from renewable plant-based sources (glycerol and oleic acid).

• Provides smooth, non-greasy textures and improves skin feel.

Applications

• Cosmetics and personal care: Used as a primary or co-emulsifier in creams, lotions, serums, sunscreens, makeup removers, and hair care products. Provides stable, elegant textures with good spreadability and moisturizing properties.

• Food industry: Employed as a food additive (E475) and emulsifier in margarines, spreads, sauces, dressings, baked goods, and confectionery. Improves texture, stability, and mouthfeel.

• Pharmaceuticals: Used as an emulsifier, solubilizer, and penetration enhancer in topical ointments, creams, and suppositories.

• Industrial: Applied as a dispersant, lubricant, and anti-foaming agent in specialty chemical formulations.

Key Benefits

• Effective emulsification for both O/W and W/O systems.

• Mild and non-irritating – suitable for sensitive skin and baby products.

• Biocompatible, biodegradable, and of natural origin.

• Compatible with a wide range of cosmetic, food, and pharmaceutical ingredients.

• Provides stable, elegant textures with good spreadability.

• Acts as a solubilizer for oils, fragrances, and active ingredients.

Recommended Use
Typical usage levels range from 1–5% of the formulation, depending on the desired emulsion stability, viscosity, and texture. For optimal performance, dissolve in the oil phase at elevated temperatures (60–70°C) before emulsification. Can be combined with co-emulsifiers and thickeners for tailored rheology.

Safety and Handling

• Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food and cosmetics at recommended concentrations.

• Low irritation potential; well-tolerated by skin and mucous membranes.

• Avoid contact with strong oxidizers and acids.

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.

• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (gloves, safety goggles) when handling.

Quality Assurance
Each batch is tested for acid value, saponification value, and emulsification performance to ensure consistent quality.