Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate is a chemical compound, an ester of methylglucose and stearic acid combined with polyglycerin-3.

The name describes the structure of the molecule:

• "Polyglyceryl-3" indicates a polymeric derivative of glycerol containing three esterified hydroxyl groups.
• "Methylglucose" is a derivative of glucose, a simple sugar, that has been methylated.
• "Distearate" indicates that there are two molecules of stearic acid esterified to the compound.

Description of raw materials used in production:

• Methylglucose. A sugar typically derived from plants.
• Stearic Acid. A fatty acid commonly extracted from animal or vegetable fats and oils.
• Polyglycerin-3. A polymer of glycerin obtained from vegetable glycerin.

Detailed summary of the production process.

• Preparation of Raw Materials. Methylglucose, stearic acid, and polyglycerin-3 are prepared and purified.
• Esterification. Methylglucose and stearic acid react in the presence of polyglycerin-3 to form an ester.
• Purification. The esterification product is purified to remove any impurities or undesired by-products.
• Packaging. Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate is packaged for sale or industrial use.

It appears as a colorless oily liquid. 

What it is for and where

Cosmetics

Surfactant - Emulsifying agent. Emulsions are thermodynamically unstable and are used to soothe or soften the skin and emulsify, so they need a specific, stabilising ingredient. This ingredient forms a film, lowers the surface tension and makes two immiscible liquids miscible. A very important factor affecting the stability of the emulsion is the amount of the emulsifying agent. Emulsifiers have the property of reducing the oil/water or water/oil interfacial tension, improving the stability of the emulsion and also directly influencing the stability, sensory properties and surface tension of sunscreens by modulating the filmometric performance.

Commercial Applications

Cosmetics and Skin Care. Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate is often used as an emulsifying agent in skincare products to help mix water-based ingredients with oil-based ingredients.

Hair Care Products. This ingredient may be found in conditioners and hair treatments to assist in forming a creamy and consistent texture.

Makeup Products. It is used in products like foundations and concealers to help form a smooth consistency and improve product spread on the skin.

Sunscreens. Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate can be utilized in sunscreens to emulsify and stabilize the formulation.