Ingredient review
Polyglyceryl-6 Myristate
INCI: Polyglyceryl-6 Myristate
A gentle, non-irritating emulsifier that creates stable, lightweight formulas without stripping the skin.
In plain English
Polyglyceryl-6 Myristate is a mild ingredient that helps water and oil mix together in creams and lotions. It's made from glycerin (a natural moisturizer) and myristic acid (a fatty acid found in coconut or palm oil). Unlike harsh detergents, it cleans without stripping your skin's natural oils, making it a favorite for sensitive skin products.
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-6 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-6 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 derived from glycerin and 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, creamy mixture. This helps active ingredients spread evenly and improves the texture of the product.
Pros
Gentle on skin
Polyglyceryl-6 Myristate has a low irritation risk, making it ideal for sensitive skin types that react to stronger emulsifiers like sodium lauryl sulfate.
Lightweight feel
It helps create creams and lotions that absorb quickly without leaving a heavy or greasy residue, improving the user experience.
Cons and cautions
Limited alone for thick formulas
For very thick creams or high-oil products, it may need to be paired with other emulsifiers or thickeners to achieve the desired consistency.
Potential palm oil sourcing
Myristic acid is often derived from palm oil, which can be associated with deforestation unless certified sustainable sources are used.
Best for
- People with sensitive, dry, or eczema-prone skin looking for gentle cleansers and moisturizers
- Anyone who prefers lightweight, non-greasy textures in their skincare
Use caution if
- Those with a known allergy to any component of the polyglyceryl ester family (rare)
Usage tips
Safety summary
Polyglyceryl-6 Myristate is considered safe for use in cosmetics. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, and no significant safety concerns have been reported in clinical or regulatory reviews.
Research notes
Research on polyglyceryl esters supports their mildness and low irritation potential compared to traditional emulsifiers. Studies show they are well-tolerated on sensitive skin and do not disrupt the skin barrier.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics by the FDA and EU CosIng database. No known restrictions at typical concentrations.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Cleansers, Serums, Sunscreens
- Environmental note
- Biodegradable and generally considered low environmental impact, though sourcing of myristic acid from palm oil may raise sustainability concerns. Look for RSPO-certified palm derivatives.
Good to know
- Polyglyceryl esters are often used in 'clean beauty' formulations because they are biodegradable and derived from natural sources.
- This ingredient is not a foaming agent, so it won't create a rich lather in cleansers.
Common questions
What is Polyglyceryl-6 Myristate in beauty products?
Polyglyceryl-6 Myristate is a mild ingredient that helps water and oil mix together in creams and lotions. It's made from glycerin (a natural moisturizer) and myristic acid (a fatty acid found in coconut or palm oil). Unlike harsh detergents, it cleans without stripping your skin's natural oils, making it a favorite for sensitive skin products.
What does Polyglyceryl-6 Myristate do in a beauty product?
It reduces the surface tension between oil and water, allowing them to form a stable, creamy mixture. This helps active ingredients spread evenly and improves the texture of the product.
Is Polyglyceryl-6 Myristate safe for most people?
Polyglyceryl-6 Myristate is considered safe for use in cosmetics. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, and no significant safety concerns have been reported in clinical or regulatory reviews.
Who should be careful with Polyglyceryl-6 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.