Polyglyceryl-10 Undecylenate
AKA “Polyglyceryl-10 Undecylenate
Synthetic
Ingredient Facts
Polyglyceryl-10 undecylenate
Synthetic · Emollient · EWG: 4
Synthetic
Emollient
Cleanser
Skin Conditioner
Synthetic
Clean
Ester of decaglycerol and undecylenic acid Science: Functions: Surfactant - Cleansing Safety Ratings: CIR: Safe as used
Form
Liquid
See origin →
Functions
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Emollient
Fills in the tiny cracks between skin cells to make everything feel smooth and soft. The "silky finish" ingredient.
Skin Conditioning
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
Cleansing Surfactant
Removes Impurities
Traditional Use
Developed in the mid-20th century as a synthetic polyglyceryl ester emulsifier. Used in cosmetics and personal care products for its emulsifying and skin-conditioning properties.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
General
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
4
CIR
Insufficient
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USAunder review
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Feb 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR