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POLYGLYCERYL-4 LAURATE

Last update on Jul 16, 2025

Polyglyceryl-4 Laurate comes from the family of ingredients responsible for keeping oil and water-based ingredients mixed well together in a formulation. As an excellent emulsifier, it forms stable emulsions and prevents products like creams and lotions from breaking down over time. Further, it is used in cleansing products due to its ability to effectively mix dirt and oil present on the skin with water and rinse them off. Most importantly, Polyglyceryl-4 Laurate is an emollient and contributes towards a softer skin feel. Derived from lauric acid and glycerin, it appears as a clear or yellow syrupy liquid in its raw form. Additionally, Polyglyceryl-4 Laurate is safe for use and is considered a non-irritant.

CAS Number: 75798-42-4Chem/IUPAC Name: 1,2,3-Propanetriol, homopolymer, dodecanoates (1:1) (4 mol glycerol average molar ratio)EINECS/ELINCS No: COSING REF No: 78911

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What is POLYGLYCERYL-4 LAURATE used for?

Polyglyceryl-4 Laurate is a mild, multifunctional ingredient used in a range of formulations targeting sensitive, dry, or acne-prone skin, as well as gentle hair care products. Being of a plant-based origin, this ingredient has gained massive popularity in "clean beauty“ formulations. 

 

For skin: Polyglyceryl-4 Laurate is primarily used in skin care products as an emulsifier. It provides a stable, non-greasy texture in moisturizers, serums, and sunscreens. Being a cleansing agent, it gently removes dirt, excess oil, and impurities from the surface of the skin without stripping the skin barrier. It is a common ingredient in micellar waters, facial cleansers, and makeup removers. Additionally, as an emollient, it imparts a smooth, soft feel to the skin after cleansing or application. 

 

For hair: Polyglyceryl-4 Laurate is largely used in shampoos where it provides mild cleansing without drying or irritating the scalp. It also helps blend oils, silicones, and water into stable emulsions that do not fall apart over time. Moreover, since it is non-irritating in nature, it is suitable for sensitive or itchy scalp formulas.

Origin

Polyglyceryl-4 Laurate is formed by reacting Polyglyceryl-4 (made from glycerin) with Lauric acid (a fatty acid). The reaction takes place under controlled heat, and water is removed during the process. The final ingredient is purified and processed further to form cosmetic-grade Polyglyceryl-4 Laurate.

What does POLYGLYCERYL-4 LAURATE do in a formulation?

EMULSIFYING|
CLEANSING|
EMOLLIENT

Safety Profile

Polyglyceryl-4 Laurate is a safe and non-toxic ingredient that is quite popular in the personal care industry. Since it is mild, non-irritating, and non-comedogenic, it is suitable for most skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone. Polyglyceryl-4 Laurate is also PEG-free and biodegradable, making it good for clean beauty and eco-formulations. However, this ingredient should be used within the recommended usage concentrations of 5%- 10% for it to be most effective and safe. Patch testing is recommended prior to full application.

POLYGLYCERYL-4 LAURATE alternatives

POLYGLYCERYL-4 LAURATE technical profile

PropertyValues

Boiling Point

>260°C

Solubility

Dispersible in water; soluble in oil

Viscosity

Low to moderate