Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate (PG-10 Oleate)

Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate – Non-Ionic O/W Emulsifier for Stable Cosmetics and Personal Care Formulations

Basic Information

• INCI Name: Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate

• CAS Number: 9004-96-0 (general for polyglyceryl esters; specific grade may vary)

• Synonyms: Decaglyceryl monooleate, Polyglycerol-10 oleate, PG-10 Oleate

• Appearance: Pale yellow to amber viscous liquid or waxy solid

• HLB Value: ~12–14 (oil-in-water emulsifier)

• Solubility: Dispersible in oils and organic solvents; slightly soluble in water

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

Overview
Polyglyceryl-10 oleate is a non-ionic monoester produced by the partial esterification of polyglycerin-10 (decaglycerin) with one molecule of oleic acid. With ten glycerol units providing a highly hydrophilic backbone and a single oleate group offering lipophilicity, this compound exhibits excellent amphiphilic properties. It effectively reduces interfacial tension, stabilizes oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions, and improves the texture and spreadability of final formulations. Mild, biocompatible, and biodegradable, it is widely used in cosmetics, personal care, pharmaceuticals, and food applications.

Key Properties

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

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

• High hydrophilicity – enhances water dispersibility and solubility.

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

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

• Biodegradable and derived from renewable plant-based sources.

• Provides smooth, elegant textures with a pleasant skin feel.

Applications

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

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

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

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

Key Benefits

• Effective O/W emulsification with excellent stability.

• 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 co-emulsifier and viscosity modifier in complex formulations.

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.