Polyglyceryl Laurate (Emulsifier)

Polyglyceryl Laurate – Non-Ionic Emulsifier and Skin Conditioner for Cosmetics, Personal Care, and Food

Basic Information

• INCI Name: Polyglyceryl Laurate (various grades available, e.g., Polyglyceryl-2 Laurate, Polyglyceryl-4 Laurate, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate)

• CAS Number: Varies by grade (e.g., 34406-66-1 for Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate; general for polyglyceryl laurates)

• Appearance: Pale yellow to amber viscous liquid or waxy solid (depending on degree of polymerization)

• HLB Value: Ranges from ~6 to ~14 depending on grade (suitable for O/W and W/O emulsions)

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

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

Overview
Polyglyceryl laurate is a non-ionic emulsifier produced by the esterification of polyglycerin (a mixture of glycerol oligomers) with lauric acid. The resulting complex mixture of esters provides a broad range of molecular weights and degrees of esterification, allowing for versatile emulsifying and stabilizing properties. This amphiphilic compound effectively reduces interfacial tension in oil-water systems, forming stable oil-in-water (O/W) and water-in-oil (W/O) emulsions. It is mild, biodegradable, and derived from renewable plant-based sources, making it a popular ingredient in cosmetics, personal care, food, and pharmaceutical 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 and baby products.

• Emollient properties – conditions and softens skin and hair.

• Excellent emulsifying, dispersing, and stabilizing properties.

• Thermal and chemical stability – resistant to hydrolysis and oxidation.

• 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, thickener, and stabilizer in O/W and W/O creams, lotions, serums, sunscreens, makeup removers, lip cosmetics, and hair care products. Provides stable, elegant textures with good spreadability, moisturizing properties, and emollient benefits.

• Food industry: Employed as a food additive and emulsifier in margarines, spreads, sauces, dressings, baked goods, ice cream, and confectionery. Improves texture, stability, and mouthfeel.

• Pharmaceuticals: Used as an emulsifier, solubilizer, and penetration enhancer in topical ointments, creams, and suppositories for uniform distribution of active ingredients.

• Industrial: Applied as a dispersant, lubricant, and stabilizer 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.

• Emollient properties – conditions and softens skin and hair.

• Excellent spreading and moisturization.

• Thermal and chemical stability – reliable performance over time.

• Biocompatible, biodegradable, and of natural origin.

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

• Acts as a co-emulsifier, thickener, and stabilizer in complex formulations.

• Versatile – available in various grades for tailored performance.

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.