Plant-based W/O emulsifier for rich creams and waterless products. Stabilizes oil systems in sunscreens and winter creams. PEG-free, low allergenicity, pregnancy-safe.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
Functional PEG-free W/O emulsifier for rich systems. Safety confirmed by CIR. No standalone activity.
Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate is a non-ionic W/O (water-in-oil) emulsifier produced by esterifying triglycerol with isostearic acid. Isostearic acid is a branched analogue of stearic acid that keeps the molecule liquid at room temperature. INCI: Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate. Trade names: Plurol Diisostearique CG (Gattefosse), Hostacerin DGI (Clariant). In formulas it works in rich W/O systems: mineral-filter sunscreens, winter creams, body balms, post-procedure products (post-laser, post-peel). Use levels are 2-6%. It gives a soft, non-tacky after-feel and raises the final water resistance by 30-50%, which is critical for sunscreens. Pregnancy safety. Topical use is safe. Systemic absorption is minimal. Hydrolysis products (glycerin, isostearic acid) are natural metabolites. Skin tolerance. Low irritation and allergen potential. Non-comedogenic (score 0-1). Suitable for sensitive skin, including couperose and post-procedure recovery. Advantage over sorbitan isostearate. Sorbitan Isostearate is the most common budget-tier W/O emulsifier but leaves a noticeably greasier feel. Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate is a premium alternative with lighter sensorial and equal or better stabilization. No standalone active effects. This is a structurant for W/O systems without penetrating activity.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
SafeSuitable for
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to Wildberries, Goldapple, Letu, iHerb, Sephora 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.
Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate suits: normal, dry, combination, sensitive.
Plant-based W/O emulsifier for rich creams and waterless products.
On the Fulton scale 0/5 – non-comedogenic. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
The INCI name is Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate. It may also appear as: Plurol Diisostearique, Полиглицерил-3 диизостеарат.
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