Common Name(s): Polyglyceryl-3 isostearate,polyglyceryl-3 isostearic acid ester,polyglycerol-3 isostearic acid

DESCRIPTION

What It Does: Helps oil and water blend in creams and lotions while conditioning skin.

Why It's Used: Polyglyceryl-3 head provides hydrophilicity (hlb ~5–7); isostearic acid tail provides oil-phase affinity; natural-origin compatible.

How It Works: Polyglycerol-3 backbone with isostearic acid ester tail; hlb ~5–7; polyglyceryl esters are widely used natural-origin emulsifiers suitable for organic cosmetic certification.

Typically Found In: O/w emulsions,natural cosmetics,organic formulations,skin conditioning products

TECHNICAL DETAILS

Primary Category: Functional ingredient – emulsifier

Secondary Functions: Skin conditioning,surfactant,natural origin

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: Polyglycerin from vegetable glycerol polymerization; isostearic acid acid from plant sources; naturally derived. [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: Very mild; suitable for sensitive skin. natural-origin ingredient.

Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes

SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY

Safety Profile: Excellent safety profile. ewg score: 1.

Works Well With: Natural oils,plant butters,other natural emulsifiers,humectants

Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities

SCIENTIFIC NOTE

Pg-3 isostearate; branched c18; non-crystallizing w/o or co-emulsifier; hlb ~5-7.

Last Verified: 2026-03-27

Primary Sources: Cosing database,inci dictionary,supplier technical data