Polyglyceryl-4 Laurate/Sebacate
AKA “Lauric/Sebacic Acid Polyglyceryl Ester, Mixed Chain Emulsifier
Synthetic
Ingredient Facts
Polyglyceryl-4 laurate/sebacate
AKA: Lauric/Sebacic Acid Polyglyceryl Ester, Mixed Chain Emulsifier
Synthetic · Cleansing · EWG: 4
Synthetic
Cleanser
Solvent
Synthetic
Clean
Polyglyceryl-4 Laurate/Sebacate is the monoester of Polyglycerin-4 and a mixture of lauric and sebacic acids Science: Functions: Solvent, Surfactant - Cleansing, Surfactant - Hydrotrope Safety Ratings: CIR: Safe as used
Form
Liquid
See origin →
Functions
Solvent
Dissolves other ingredients so they distribute evenly in the formula. Often the invisible "base" everything else is mixed into.
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Hydrotrope
Dissolves Ingredients
Cleansing Surfactant
Surfactant Hydrotrope
Anti-Aging Benefits
Lifts away dirt and oil
Improves ingredient solubility
Dissolves other ingredients
Traditional Use
A modern emulsifier combining lauric acid with sebacic acid (derived from castor oil) and polyglyceryl. Created to improve both cleansing and skin conditioning in facial care products.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
General
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
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