Polyglyceryl-8 Stearate (PGE-8 MS)

Polyglyceryl-8 Stearate – Non-Ionic O/W Emulsifier for Light Cosmetics and Personal Care

Basic Information

• INCI Name: Polyglyceryl-8 Stearate

• CAS Number: 99733-99-0 (common for polyglyceryl stearates; check specific grade)

• Appearance: Pale yellow to off-white waxy solid or paste

• HLB Value: ~10.5–11.5 (O/W emulsifier)

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

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

Overview
Polyglyceryl-8 monostearate is a non-ionic surfactant produced by the selective esterification of polyglycerin (with an average of eight glycerol units) with one molecule of stearic acid. The longer hydrophilic chain (eight glycerol units) enhances water solubility and provides excellent emulsifying and stabilizing properties. This results in the formation of light, elegant, and homogeneous oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions with a pleasant skin feel.

Key Properties

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

• Outstanding water solubility – enables clear and translucent formulations.

• Forms light, non-greasy emulsions with a smooth texture.

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

• Effective as a primary or co-emulsifier in O/W systems.

• PEG-free, biodegradable, and derived from renewable plant-based sources.

Applications

• Cosmetics and personal care: Used as a primary or co-emulsifier in creams, lotions, milks, sunscreens, makeup removers, and decorative cosmetics (foundations, concealers) to create light textures and uniform distribution of active ingredients.

• Skin care: Provides moisturizing, emollient, and conditioning benefits.

• Hair care: Incorporated into conditioners, leave-in treatments, and styling products for improved spreadability and feel.

• Pharmaceuticals: Employed in topical formulations, gels, and ointments as a mild emulsifier and stabilizer.

• Household products: Used in mild cleaning formulations and fabric softeners.

Key Benefits

• Excellent water solubility – ideal for lightweight, fluid formulations.

• Creates elegant, non-greasy emulsions with good spreadability.

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

• Effective emulsification and stabilization of O/W systems.

• PEG-free, biodegradable, and eco-friendly.

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

• Provides uniform distribution of active and pigment components.

Recommended Use
Typical usage levels range from 1–5% of the formulation, depending on the desired emulsion stability, texture, and viscosity. 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 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.