Polyglyceryl-3 Oleate (PG-3 Oleate)

Polyglyceryl-3 Oleate – Mild Non-Ionic Emulsifier for Stable Cosmetics and Personal Care Formulations

Basic Information

• INCI Name: Polyglyceryl-3 Oleate

• CAS Number: 33940-99-7 (common for polyglyceryl-3 oleate; check specific grade)

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

• HLB Value: ~8–9 (lipophilic, suitable for O/W and W/O emulsions)

• 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-3 oleate is a non-ionic monoester produced by the esterification of polyglycerin-3 (triglycerin) with one molecule of oleic acid. This structure provides a balanced hydrophilic-lipophilic profile, with the three glycerol units offering sufficient hydrophilicity and the oleate group providing lipophilicity. It effectively reduces interfacial tension in oil-water systems, making it an excellent emulsifier, stabilizer, and skin-conditioning agent. It is mild, biocompatible, and biodegradable, making it suitable for sensitive skin and natural cosmetic formulations.

Key Properties

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

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

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

• Biocompatible and low toxicity – safe for topical applications.

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

• Provides smooth, elegant textures and enhances 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.

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

• Food industry: Used as a food additive (E475) and emulsifier 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 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 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.