Polyglyceryl-3 Soyate/Shea Butterate
AKA “Soy and Shea Butter Polyglyceryl Ester, Mixed Oil Emollient
Synthetic
Ingredient Facts
Polyglyceryl-3 soyate/shea butterate
AKA: Soy and Shea Butter Polyglyceryl Ester, Mixed Oil Emollient
Synthetic · Emollient · EWG: 4
Plant-Derived Synthetic
Emollient
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Skin Conditioner
Plant Oil
Synthetic
Clean
Ester of triglycerol and acids of Glycine Soja and Butyrospermum Parkii Science: Origin: Botanic/Natural | Process: Cold Pressed / Expeller Pressed | Functions: Surfactant - Emulsifying ⚠ Allergen Alert (Soy): Derived from a common allergen source. May cause reactions in sensitive individuals. Safety Ratings: CIR: Safe as used
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.
Locks in moisture
Prevents moisture loss
Quells irritation
Traditional Use
Developed in the late 20th century as a modern emulsifier combining soybean and shea butter fatty acids. Created to replace traditional soap-based emulsifiers with gentler, plant-derived alternatives suitable for sensitive skincare formulations.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
General
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Allergen Warning
⚠️ Tree Nut (Shea)
⚠️ Soy
EWG
4
CIR
Safe w/Qualifications
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Feb 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR