Ingredient review
Polyglyceryl-3 Stearate/Oleate/Dimer Dilinoleate Crosspolymer
INCI: POLYGLYCERYL-3 STEARATE/OLEATE/DIMER DILINOLEATE CROSSPOLYMER
A gentle, plant-derived emulsifier that creates stable, creamy textures without common irritation.
In plain English
This ingredient is a type of emulsifier made from glycerin and fatty acids from plants. It helps mix water and oil together so your lotion or cream stays smooth and doesn't separate. It also gives products a nice, silky feel without being greasy.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- semi synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Polyglyceryl-3 Stearate/Oleate/Dimer Dilinoleate Crosspolymer is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Polyglyceryl-3 Stearate/Oleate/Dimer Dilinoleate Crosspolymer.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
A polymeric emulsifier derived from polyglycerol and fatty acids (stearic, oleic, and dimer dilinoleic). It is created through a crosspolymerization process that results in a large, stable molecule.
How it works
It works by surrounding oil droplets with a thin film, allowing them to mix evenly with water. This creates a stable emulsion that resists separation. Its large molecular structure also helps it sit on the skin's surface, providing a smooth, non-greasy feel.
Pros
Gentle on skin
Derived from plant-based glycerin and fatty acids, it has a very low irritation risk, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
Improves product feel
It gives creams and lotions a smooth, silky texture that spreads easily and doesn't leave a sticky or greasy residue.
Cons and cautions
May feel heavy for oily skin
In high concentrations, it can create a richer texture that might feel too heavy for those with very oily or acne-prone skin.
Not for ultra-light formulas
It is best suited for medium to thick emulsions; it may not work well in very thin, watery products like toners.
Best for
- People with normal to dry skin
- Those who prefer creamy, rich textures
- Anyone looking for gentle, non-irritating emulsifiers
Use caution if
- Those with very oily or acne-prone skin may prefer lighter emulsifiers
Usage tips
Safety summary
Considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. Low irritation and comedogenic risk. No significant safety concerns reported in regulatory or scientific literature.
Research notes
Limited direct studies on this specific crosspolymer, but its components (polyglycerol, stearic acid, oleic acid) are well-studied and considered safe. The crosspolymer structure reduces skin penetration, further lowering irritation potential.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1–5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics globally, including by the EU and FDA. No known restrictions.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Sunscreens, Serums, Creams, Lotions
- Environmental note
- Derived from renewable plant sources (glycerin and fatty acids). Biodegradability is expected to be moderate due to its polymeric nature.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often used in 'natural' or 'green' formulations because it is derived from plant sources.
- It is a crosspolymer, meaning it has a large molecular structure that helps create a stable film on the skin.
Common questions
What is Polyglyceryl-3 Stearate/Oleate/Dimer Dilinoleate Crosspolymer in beauty products?
This ingredient is a type of emulsifier made from glycerin and fatty acids from plants. It helps mix water and oil together so your lotion or cream stays smooth and doesn't separate. It also gives products a nice, silky feel without being greasy.
What does Polyglyceryl-3 Stearate/Oleate/Dimer Dilinoleate Crosspolymer do in a beauty product?
It works by surrounding oil droplets with a thin film, allowing them to mix evenly with water. This creates a stable emulsion that resists separation. Its large molecular structure also helps it sit on the skin's surface, providing a smooth, non-greasy feel.
Is Polyglyceryl-3 Stearate/Oleate/Dimer Dilinoleate Crosspolymer safe for most people?
Considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. Low irritation and comedogenic risk. No significant safety concerns reported in regulatory or scientific literature.
Who should be careful with Polyglyceryl-3 Stearate/Oleate/Dimer Dilinoleate Crosspolymer?
Those with very oily or acne-prone skin may prefer lighter emulsifiers
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.