Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate
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.
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, Sensitive
About this ingredient
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.
Frequently asked questions
Is Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate safe during pregnancy?
Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate for?
Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate suits: normal, dry, combination, sensitive.
What is Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate and what does it do in cosmetics?
Plant-based W/O emulsifier for rich creams and waterless products.
Is Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate comedogenic?
On the Fulton scale 0/5 – non-comedogenic. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
What's the INCI name for Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate?
The INCI name is Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate. It may also appear as: Plurol Diisostearique.
See Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate in a product composition right on the store page
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