Polyglyceryl-3 Laurate

Polyglyceryl-3 Laurate Description

Polyglyceryl-3 laurate is an emulsifier derived from glycerin and the fatty acid lauric acid, a medium chain fatty acid found in coconut oil. In addition to its function as an emulsifier, polyglyceryl-3 laurate is a surface-active agent (surfactant), emollient, and skin conditioning ingredient. This versatility explains its widespread use in cosmetics.

The independent Cosmetic Ingredient Review has ruled polyglyceryl-3 laurate safe in its current usage in cosmetics, where its maximum usage in leave-on formulas is between 1-6%. Note that this emulsifier is typically combined with other emulsifiers with different and overlapping properties depending on the complexity of the formula. Simpler water-based formulas can use polyglyceryl-3 laurate on its own.