A plant humectant. It draws and holds water in skin and gives softness. Well tolerated.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
A functional humectant. Safe.
Polyglycerin-6 (INCI: Polyglycerin-6) is a plant-derived humectant made of six linked glycerin units. It draws water into the skin and holds it there, which gives hydration and a soft feel. It also improves the texture of the formula. It is used in creams, serums, cleansers and hair products. On efficacy it is a reliable functional humectant. It hydrates well and improves skin comfort, though, as a humectant, it does not treat wrinkles or dark spots. Compared with plain glycerin, it usually feels less sticky, which makes it comfortable in light formulas. For topical use it has no systemic relevance and can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Tolerance is good: low irritation potential and low allergy risk, suitable for sensitive skin. As a good humectant, it performs better in formulas that also include occlusives or emollients to seal in the water it attracts.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
SafeSuitable for
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Polyglycerin-6 is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Polyglycerin-6 suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
A plant humectant.
The INCI name is Polyglycerin-6. It may also appear as: Полиглицерин-6.
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