Polyglyceryl-10 Palmitate (PGE-10 Palmitate)

Polyglyceryl-10 Palmitate – High-HLB Non-Ionic Emulsifier for Light and Stable Cosmetic Emulsions

Chemical Structure and Synthesis
Polyglyceryl-10 palmitate is a non-ionic ester produced by the esterification of polyglycerin-10 (decaglycerin, a polymer of ten glycerol units) with palmitic acid (hexadecanoic acid, C16:0), a saturated fatty acid commonly derived from palm oil and other vegetable sources. The synthesis can be represented as:
(Gly)₁₀–OH + CH₃(CH₂)₁₄COOH → (Gly)₁₀–O–CO–(CH₂)₁₄CH₃ + H₂O
The extended polyglycerol chain (ten glycerol units) provides enhanced water solubility and hydrophilicity, while the palmitate chain offers lipophilic character, creating a balanced amphiphilic molecule with excellent emulsifying properties.

Physicochemical Properties

• Enhanced hydrophilicity – the longer polyglycerol block improves water solubility and compatibility with aqueous systems.

• Emulsifying activity – effectively reduces interfacial tension, stabilizing oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions with fine, light textures.

• Skin conditioning – acts as an emollient, smoothing and softening skin, providing a non-greasy 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: Light 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 light, stable, and elegant textures.

• Enhanced hydrophilicity – ideal for aqueous and water-rich formulations.

• 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.