Polyglycerin-6
A plant humectant. It draws and holds water in skin and gives softness. Well tolerated.
Evidence by route
Topical application
A functional humectant. Safe.
- CIR Cosmetic Ingredient Review safety assessment
How to read tiers A–F
- BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
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.
Frequently asked questions
Is Polyglycerin-6 safe during pregnancy?
Polyglycerin-6 is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Polyglycerin-6 for?
Polyglycerin-6 suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Polyglycerin-6 and what does it do in cosmetics?
A plant humectant.
What's the INCI name for Polyglycerin-6?
The INCI name is Polyglycerin-6.
See Polyglycerin-6 in a product composition right on the store page
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