Description

What is Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate?

Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate (INCI: Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate; CAS 34406-66-1) is a mild, PEG-free, nonionic multifunctional ingredient in the polyglycerol ester family. It is produced by esterifying polyglycerol (approximately ten glycerol units) with lauric acid from vegetable oils and is supplied as a clear, light yellow liquid. With a high HLB of around 15.5–18, it combines exceptional foaming and foam-stabilizing properties with strong water-binding capacity, particularly for hard-to-dissolve vegetable oils, and acts as an effective solubilizer for fragrances and essential oils. Moisturizing, non-irritating and biodegradable, it also disperses ultrafine powders and supports mild cleansing, making it a versatile ingredient for skin, body, hair and baby care.

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Key Benefits

• Exceptional foaming and foam-stabilizing: builds and holds fine, creamy foam in cleansers and mousses.
• Strong water-binding capacity: especially effective with hard-to-dissolve vegetable oils, improving hydration and emulsion stability.
• High-HLB solubilizer: solubilizes perfumes, essential oils and lipophilic actives in clear aqueous systems.
• Moisturizing and non-irritating: gentle on sensitive skin and suitable for mild and baby products.
• Disperses ultrafine powders: keeps mineral and pigment particles evenly dispersed.
• PEG-free and plant-derived: no ethylene oxide; a green, biodegradable choice for natural formulations.
• Convenient liquid form: easy to incorporate, including in cold and sprayable products.

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Applications

• Cleansing products: facial cleansers and mousses, shower gels, shampoos, hand and body washes.
• Sprayable and roll-on care: fine mists, roll-ons and lightweight lotions where low viscosity matters.
• Skin care: creams, lotions, essences, sunscreen and makeup-removing products.
• Baby and sensitive care: gentle washes and leave-on products.
• Color cosmetics and powder systems: foundations and products requiring stable ultrafine dispersion.

Typical use level: 0.5–15%, depending on the product type and function.

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FAQ

Q1: Is it a surfactant or an emulsifier? A1: Both — as a high-HLB nonionic ingredient it acts as a mild foaming cleanser, an O/W co-emulsifier and a solubilizer for oils and fragrances.

Q2: Does it contain PEG? A2: No — it is built from polyglycerol and lauric acid, so it is PEG-free and suitable for natural and clean-beauty formulations.

Q3: Why is it good with vegetable oils? A3: Its strong water-binding and high-HLB character helps incorporate even hard-to-dissolve vegetable oils smoothly into aqueous systems.