Polyglyceryl-3 Ricinoleate
AKA “Polyglyceryl-3 ricinoleate, Polyglycerol ricinoleate
Synthetic
Ingredient Facts
Polyglyceryl-3 ricinoleate
AKA: Polyglycerol ricinoleate
Synthetic · Emollient · EWG: 1
Synthetic
Emollient
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Skin Conditioner
Plant Oil
Synthetic
Clean
1,2,3-Propanetriol, homopolymer, 12-(R)-hydroxy-9-(Z)-octadecenoates (1:1) (3 mol glycerol average molar ratio) Science: Functions: Surfactant - Emulsifying Safety Ratings: CIR: Safe as used
CAS #
-
Form
Liquid
See origin →
Functions
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Skin Conditioning
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
Emollient
Fills in the tiny cracks between skin cells to make everything feel smooth and soft. The "silky finish" ingredient.
Emulsifier
Brightens Skin
Mixes Oil & Water
Traditional Use
A synthetic ester derived from ricinoleic acid (castor oil component) combined with polyglycerin. Developed as a modern emulsifier while maintaining some connection to the traditional use of castor oil.
Skin Types
all-skin-types, gentle
Best For
General
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
1
CIR
Safe
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
ewg-1
medical-approval
pregnancy-nursing-safe
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Feb 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR