Polyglyceryl-6 Pentastearate CAS 99734-30-2

Polyglyceryl-6 Pentastearate – High-Esterification Lipophilic Emulsifier for Viscous Emulsions and Crystallization Control

Basic Information

• INCI Name: Polyglyceryl-6 Pentastearate

• CAS Number: 99734-30-2

• Synonyms: Hexaglyceryl pentastearate, Octadecanoic acid pentaester with hexaglycerol

• Appearance: Pale yellow to white waxy solid or granules

• HLB Value: ~7.0

• Melting Point: 53–60°C

• Acid Value: ≤2.0 mg KOH/g

• Saponification Value: 125–140

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

Overview
Polyglyceryl-6 pentastearate is a non-ionic lipophilic surfactant produced by the esterification of polyglycerin (with an average of six glycerol units) with five molecules of stearic acid. This high degree of esterification results in a predominantly lipophilic character, making it an effective water-in-oil (W/O) emulsifier. It exhibits excellent salt and acid resistance with high safety, and is widely used in cosmetic, food, and pharmaceutical formulations where dense, high‑viscosity emulsions and stable oil-phase dispersions are required.

Key Properties

• Highly lipophilic – suitable for W/O emulsions and oil-rich systems.

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

• Excellent salt and acid resistance – maintains stability in challenging formulations.

• Good thermal stability – melts at 53–60°C, suitable for hot processing.

• Regulates fat crystallization – prevents unwanted crystal formation in oils and fats.

• Acts as a wax component – contributes to texture and consistency.

• Biodegradable and derived from renewable plant-based sources.

Applications

• Cosmetics and personal care: Used as a primary or co-emulsifier in W/O creams, lotions, sunscreens, and makeup products to create dense, viscous emulsions and improve stability.

• Food industry: Applied as an emulsifier and fat crystallization inhibitor in margarine, spreads, and other fat-based products to improve stability, mouthfeel, and texture.

• Pharmaceuticals: Employed in topical ointments and controlled-release formulations as a lipophilic emulsifier and consistency agent.

• Industrial: Used as a wax component and crystal regulator in specialty coatings and lubricants.

Key Benefits

• Effective W/O emulsification with high viscosity build.

• Excellent salt and acid resistance – stable in demanding formulations.

• Regulates fat and oil crystallization – prevents grainy textures.

• Provides dense, stable emulsions with good spreadability.

• Compatible with a wide range of lipophilic ingredients.

• PEG-free and biodegradable – eco-friendly.

• Derived from renewable plant-based sources.

Recommended Use
Typical usage levels range from 1–5% of the formulation, depending on the desired emulsion stability, viscosity, and crystallization control. For optimal performance, dissolve in the oil phase at elevated temperatures (60–70°C) before emulsification.

Safety and Handling

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

• Low irritation potential; well‑tolerated by skin.

• 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, melting point, and emulsification performance to ensure consistent quality.