Polyglyceryl-5 Stearate
AKA “Polyglyceryl-5 Stearate”
Synthetic
Ingredient Facts
Polyglyceryl-5 stearate
Synthetic · Emollient · EWG: 4
Plant-Derived Synthetic
Emollient
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Skin Conditioner
Plant Oil
Synthetic
Clean
A gentle plant-derived ingredient that helps blend oil and water together, keeping your product smooth and creamy while it works on your skin.
CAS #
37349-34-1
See origin →
Functions
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
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.
Emulsifier
Mixes Oil & Water
Traditional Use
Synthesized in the mid-to-late 20th century from polyglycerin and stearic acid. Designed as a versatile emulsifier to replace traditional soap and animal-derived emulsifiers in a wide range of cosmetic products.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Verified Feb 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR