Polyglyceryl-3 Caprate
A mild glycerin-based emulsifier. It blends oil and water and softens skin. Well tolerated.
Supporting ingredient
It gives a product its texture, stability or shelf life. It has no claimed effect on the skin, so an efficacy tier does not apply. What is known about its safety is below
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Polyglyceryl-3 Caprate is a mild plant-derived emulsifier, an ester of polyglycerin and capric acid. On the label it reads Polyglyceryl-3 Caprate. Its function is to bind oil and water phases into a stable emulsion, with an emollient touch that softens the feel. On efficacy, let me be direct: it is a functional component, a texture emulsifier, not a treatment active. It has no anti-ageing or repairing action of its own. Its merit is building light, stable creams and lotions, especially in PEG-free systems where its more natural profile is valued. For pregnancy and breastfeeding there is no reason for caution. Its systemic uptake through skin is negligible, so it can be used. Tolerance is high. Irritation potential and allergy risk are low, so it fits sensitive skin. Polyglycerin emulsifiers are usually well tolerated and rarely cause reactions.
Frequently asked questions
Is Polyglyceryl-3 Caprate safe during pregnancy?
Polyglyceryl-3 Caprate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Polyglyceryl-3 Caprate for?
Polyglyceryl-3 Caprate suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Polyglyceryl-3 Caprate and what does it do in cosmetics?
A mild glycerin-based emulsifier.
What's the INCI name for Polyglyceryl-3 Caprate?
The INCI name is Polyglyceryl-3 Caprate.
See Polyglyceryl-3 Caprate in a product composition right on the store page
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.
Similar role in the formula
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