Common Name(s): Polyglyceryl-2-peg-4 stearate,pg-2 peg-4 stearate hybrid,polyglycerol-peg stearate

DESCRIPTION

What It Does: Helps oil and water blend in a wide range of formulas.

Why It's Used: Hybrid polyglyceryl-peg emulsifier combining the natural-origin appeal of polyglyceryl with the hlb-tuning capability of peg; hlb ~7-9 for balanced o/w emulsification.

How It Works: Polyglyceryl-2 block provides natural-origin hydrophilicity; peg-4 modification adds synthetic-type hlb control; stearate tail provides oil-phase anchoring.

Typically Found In: Natural-conventional hybrid formulas,o/w emulsions,versatile emulsion systems

TECHNICAL DETAILS

Primary Category: Functional ingredient – emulsifier

Secondary Functions: Skin conditioning,surfactant

Application Areas:

Typical Concentration Range: 0.5%–5%

SOURCING & ETHICS

Vegan Status: Conditional - feedstock declaration required

Halal Status: Unverified - feedstock declaration required (plant, animal and petrochemical routes all exist)

Source Notes: Polyglycerol from vegetable glycerol; stearic acid from plant; peg from petrochemical; semi-natural. [audit 2026-07-29 rev2: origin-dependent: the same inci exists in plant, animal and petrochemical versions and the name does not discriminate. determination requires shariah-panel sign-off.]

SKIN COMPATIBILITY

Irritancy Rating: 1/5 – very low

Comedogenicity Rating: 1/5 – low

Sensitivity Concerns: Generally well tolerated.

Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes

SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY

Safety Profile: Good safety profile. ewg score: 1–2.

Works Well With: Natural oils,humectants,other emulsifiers

Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities

SCIENTIFIC NOTE

Hybrid polyglyceryl-peg emulsifiers bridge the formulation gap between fully natural polyglyceryl emulsifiers and conventional peg emulsifiers; useful for formulators transitioning to more natural systems.

Last Verified: 2026-03-27

Primary Sources: Cosing database,inci dictionary