Polyglyceryl-4 Pentapalmitate/Stearate
AKA “Palmitic/Stearic Acid Polyglyceryl Ester, Mixed Chain Emulsifier
Synthetic
Ingredient Facts
Polyglyceryl-4 pentapalmitate/stearate
AKA: Palmitic/Stearic Acid Polyglyceryl Ester, Mixed Chain Emulsifier
Synthetic · Cleansing · EWG: 4
Plant-Derived Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Synthetic
Clean
Polyglyceryl-4 Pentapalmitate/Stearate is the pentaester of a mixture of Palmitic Acid and Stearic Acid (q.v.) with Polyglycerin-4. Science: Origin: Botanic/Natural | Functions: Surfactant - Cleansing, Surfactant - Emulsifying Safety Ratings: CIR: Safe as used
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.
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Cleansing Surfactant
Emulsifier
Anti-Aging Benefits
Removes Impurities
Mixes Oil & Water
Traditional Use
A complex polyglyceryl emulsifier combining multiple palmitic and stearic acid chains. Designed to create stable, conditioning emulsions with superior skin feel in luxury skincare and makeup 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