Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate (PGE-10 Myristate)

Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate – Non-Ionic O/W Emulsifier and Skin Conditioner for Cosmetic Formulations

Chemical Structure and Synthesis
Polyglyceryl-10 myristate is a non-ionic ester produced by the esterification of polyglycerin-10 (decaglycerin, a polymer of ten glycerol units) with myristic acid (tetradecanoic acid, C14:0), a saturated fatty acid commonly found in nutmeg, palm kernel oil, and coconut oil. The synthesis can be represented as:
(Gly)₁₀–OH + CH₃(CH₂)₁₂COOH → (Gly)₁₀–O–CO–(CH₂)₁₂CH₃ + H₂O
The extended hydrophilic polyglycerol chain (ten glycerol units) provides excellent water solubility, while the myristate chain offers lipophilic character, creating a balanced amphiphilic molecule with outstanding emulsifying properties.

Physicochemical Properties

• Amphiphilic – balances hydrophilic polyglycerol head and lipophilic myristate chain, effectively reducing interfacial tension.

• Emulsifying activity – stabilizes oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions, providing fine, stable, and elegant textures.

• Skin conditioning – acts as an emollient, smoothing and softening skin, imparting a non-greasy, pleasant feel.

• Texturizing effect – improves viscosity, spreadability, and overall sensory properties of formulations.

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

• Thermal stability – maintains performance under normal processing and storage conditions.

• Biodegradable and derived from renewable plant-based sources.

Applications

• Skin care: Creams, lotions, moisturizers, serums, sunscreens – provides stable, elegant O/W emulsions with excellent spreadability and a light, non-greasy feel.

• Hair care: Shampoos, conditioners – offers mild conditioning and improved manageability.

• Cleansing products: Micellar waters, facial cleansers, body washes – delivers gentle cleansing with a pleasant skin feel.

• Color cosmetics: Foundations, primers – enhances pigment dispersion and application.

• Food industry: Used as a food emulsifier and texturizer in various applications.

• Other: Suitable for use in microemulsions and as a co-emulsifier in complex formulations.

Key Benefits

• Effective O/W emulsification with stable, elegant textures.

• Provides emollient, skin-softening, and moisturizing properties.

• Improves product spreadability and sensory feel.

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

• Biodegradable and environmentally friendly.

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

• Acts as a co-emulsifier, thickener, and stabilizer in complex formulations.

Recommended Use
Typical usage levels range from 1–5% of the formulation, depending on the desired emulsion stability, viscosity, and skin feel. 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 for use in cosmetics and food at recommended concentrations.

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

• 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.