Polyglyceryl-3 Oleate is a cosmetic ingredient commonly used as an emulsifier and skin conditioner in a wide range of personal care products. It is an ester formed from the reaction of glycerol (polyglycerin-3) and oleic acid, a naturally occurring fatty acid. This ingredient is prized for its ability to stabilize oil-in-water emulsions and for its moisturizing properties, enhancing the overall feel and hydration of the skin.

Chemical Composition and Structure

This ester bridges the properties of polyglycerin-3, which is known for its humectant and moisturizing effects, with those of oleic acid, which is known for its emollient and skin-conditioning abilities. Oleic acid helps to enhance skin penetration and absorption, making Polyglyceryl-3 Oleate particularly effective in formulations intended to nourish and hydrate the skin.

Physical Properties

Polyglyceryl-3 Oleate typically appears as a clear to pale yellow viscous liquid at room temperature. It is soluble in oils and has limited solubility in water, making it ideal for oil-based cosmetic formulations like creams, lotions, and other emollient-rich products.

Production Process

Synthesis: The synthesis of Polyglyceryl-3 Oleate involves the esterification of glycerol (polyglycerin-3) with oleic acid. This reaction generally requires controlled conditions, such as specific temperatures and catalysts, to promote efficient ester linkage.
Purification: Following synthesis, the product undergoes a series of purification steps to remove any unreacted starting materials and by-products, ensuring high purity and quality.
Quality Control: The final product is rigorously tested to ensure its stability, efficacy, and compatibility with other cosmetic ingredients. These tests typically include measurements of viscosity, stability under various conditions, and performance in emulsion systems.

Applications

Cosmetic Products: Used extensively in formulations such as facial moisturizers, body lotions, and sunscreens, where it serves as an effective emulsifier that helps to blend and stabilize the mixture of oil and water components.
Skin Care: Valuable in moisturizing and reparative skincare products, contributing to skin softness and hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
Makeup: Employed in makeup foundations and other creamy makeup products to improve texture and application, ensuring a smooth and even finish.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

Polyglyceryl-3 Oleate is considered safe for use in cosmetic products and is generally well-tolerated by the skin. It is non-irritating and suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Derived from natural fatty acids, it is considered an environmentally friendly ingredient. As with all ingredients, its use within recommended concentrations is crucial to maintain safety and effectiveness.

INCI


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.
Synonyms:

CAS: 33940-98-6 EC number 251-749-7