Common Name(s): Polyglyceryl-4 oleyl ether,pg-4 oleyl ether,polyglycerol-4 octadecenyl ether

DESCRIPTION

What It Does: Helps oil and water blend in formulas with a smooth, conditioning skin feel.

Why It's Used: Ether-linked oleyl variant of pg-4; liquid due to unsaturation; hlb ~8–10 suitable for o/w emulsification.

How It Works: Ether linkage (more stable than ester); c18:1 oleyl chain keeps the molecule liquid; pg-4 provides hydrophilicity; hlb ~8-10.

Typically Found In: Natural cosmetics,o/w emulsions,emollient-emulsifiers

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; oleyl alcohol from plant; 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.

Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes

SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY

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

Works Well With: Natural emulsifiers,humectants,natural oils

Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities

SCIENTIFIC NOTE

Pg-4 oleyl ether is liquid due to c18:1 unsaturation unlike solid c18:0 stearyl ethers; ether bond provides excellent ph stability; hlb ~8-10 suitable for o/w systems.

Last Verified: 2026-03-27

Primary Sources: Cosing database,inci dictionary