Ingredient review
Polyglyceryl-5 Myristate
INCI: Polyglyceryl-5 Myristate
A mild, plant-derived emulsifier that helps create stable, lightweight creams and lotions with low irritation potential.
In plain English
Polyglyceryl-5 Myristate is a gentle emulsifier made from glycerin (a sugar alcohol) and myristic acid (a fatty acid found in coconut and palm oils). Its job is to help water and oil mix together so your moisturizer or cleanser stays smooth and doesn't separate. Because it's very mild, it's often used in products for sensitive or reactive skin.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Strong fit for many routines
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
Easy yes for most routines
Polyglyceryl-5 Myristate 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-5 Myristate.
- 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 semi-synthetic emulsifier created by combining glycerin with myristic acid. It belongs to the polyglyceryl ester family, known for being gentle and biodegradable.
How it works
It reduces the surface tension between oil and water, allowing them to form a stable emulsion. This creates a smooth, uniform texture in creams and lotions without needing harsh detergents or high heat during manufacturing.
Pros
Gentle on skin
Polyglyceryl-5 Myristate has a very low irritation score, making it a safe choice for sensitive skin types and for use around the eye area.
Lightweight feel
It produces emulsions that feel silky and non-greasy on the skin, which is ideal for daytime moisturizers and gel-creams.
Cons and cautions
Potential sustainability concerns
Myristic acid is often derived from palm oil, so unless the ingredient is certified sustainable, it may contribute to deforestation and habitat loss.
Limited standalone efficacy
In some formulations, it may need to be paired with other emulsifiers or thickeners to achieve the desired texture and stability.
Best for
- Anyone with sensitive or easily irritated skin
- People looking for lightweight, non-greasy moisturizers or sunscreens
Use caution if
- Those with a known allergy to any component of the polyglyceryl ester family (rare)
Usage tips
Safety summary
Polyglyceryl-5 Myristate is considered very safe for topical use. It has low irritation and sensitization potential, and no known toxicity concerns at typical cosmetic concentrations.
Research notes
Research on polyglyceryl esters supports their mildness and effectiveness as emulsifiers. While specific studies on Polyglyceryl-5 Myristate are limited, the broader class is well-documented in cosmetic science literature.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics worldwide, including by the EU CosIng database and the US FDA as part of generally recognized safe ingredients.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Cleansers, Serums, Sunscreens
- Environmental note
- Polyglyceryl-5 Myristate is biodegradable, but its environmental footprint depends on the sourcing of myristic acid. Look for RSPO-certified palm derivatives when possible.
Good to know
- Polyglyceryl esters are often used in 'natural' or 'clean' beauty products because they are derived from renewable plant sources.
- This ingredient is not a surfactant or cleanser on its own; it is strictly an emulsifier for creams and lotions.
Common questions
What is Polyglyceryl-5 Myristate in beauty products?
Polyglyceryl-5 Myristate is a gentle emulsifier made from glycerin (a sugar alcohol) and myristic acid (a fatty acid found in coconut and palm oils). Its job is to help water and oil mix together so your moisturizer or cleanser stays smooth and doesn't separate. Because it's very mild, it's often used in products for sensitive or reactive skin.
What does Polyglyceryl-5 Myristate do in a beauty product?
It reduces the surface tension between oil and water, allowing them to form a stable emulsion. This creates a smooth, uniform texture in creams and lotions without needing harsh detergents or high heat during manufacturing.
Is Polyglyceryl-5 Myristate safe for most people?
Polyglyceryl-5 Myristate is considered very safe for topical use. It has low irritation and sensitization potential, and no known toxicity concerns at typical cosmetic concentrations.
Who should be careful with Polyglyceryl-5 Myristate?
Those with a known allergy to any component of the polyglyceryl ester family (rare)
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.