Ingredient review
Polyglyceryl-6 Undecylenate
INCI: Polyglyceryl-6 Undecylenate
A mild, non-stripping emulsifier that helps create stable, rinse-off and leave-on products without drying the skin.
In plain English
Polyglyceryl-6 Undecylenate is a gentle ingredient that helps oil and water mix together in skincare products. It is often used in cleansers and makeup removers to lift away dirt and makeup without leaving the skin feeling tight or dry. Because it is made from plant-derived fatty acids and glycerin, it is considered a milder alternative to traditional sulfates or harsh soaps.
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 Undecylenate 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 Undecylenate.
- 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 made by combining undecylenic acid (a fatty acid from castor oil) with polyglycerin (a glycerin derivative). It belongs to the polyglyceryl ester family, known for being gentle on skin.
How it works
It reduces the surface tension between oil and water, allowing them to blend into a stable emulsion. In cleansers, it helps surround and lift oil-based impurities so they can be rinsed away easily. In moisturizers, it helps create a smooth, uniform texture.
Pros
Very gentle on skin
Unlike harsh sulfates, this emulsifier cleans without disrupting the skin's natural moisture barrier, making it ideal for sensitive or dry skin.
Versatile in formulations
Works well in both rinse-off cleansers and leave-on creams, helping create smooth, stable textures that feel pleasant on the skin.
Cons and cautions
Limited heavy-duty cleansing
On its own, it may struggle to fully remove long-wear or waterproof makeup, so it is often paired with other cleansing agents.
Less common in drugstore products
You are more likely to find it in specialty or natural-leaning brands, which can be pricier or harder to find.
Best for
- Anyone looking for a gentle, sulfate-free cleanser
- People with dry or sensitive skin who want a non-stripping cleansing experience
Use caution if
- Those with a known allergy to castor oil derivatives (very rare)
Usage tips
Safety summary
Polyglyceryl-6 Undecylenate has a strong safety profile with very low irritation and allergy potential. It is non-comedogenic and suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin. No significant safety concerns have been reported in cosmetic use.
Research notes
While not extensively studied in isolation, the polyglyceryl ester family is well-documented for mildness and safety. Studies on similar polyglyceryl surfactants show they are significantly less irritating than sodium lauryl sulfate and do not compromise skin barrier function.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5–5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics globally, including by the EU CosIng database and the US FDA (as part of generally recognized safe ingredients). No specific restrictions at typical use levels.
- Common uses
- Cleansers, Makeup removers, Moisturizers, Serums
- Environmental note
- Derived from castor oil and glycerin, both renewable plant sources. It is readily biodegradable, making it a more eco-conscious choice compared to some petroleum-based emulsifiers.
Good to know
- It is often listed near the middle or end of an ingredient list because effective concentrations are low.
- This ingredient is biodegradable and considered environmentally friendlier than some traditional emulsifiers.
Common questions
What is Polyglyceryl-6 Undecylenate in beauty products?
Polyglyceryl-6 Undecylenate is a gentle ingredient that helps oil and water mix together in skincare products. It is often used in cleansers and makeup removers to lift away dirt and makeup without leaving the skin feeling tight or dry. Because it is made from plant-derived fatty acids and glycerin, it is considered a milder alternative to traditional sulfates or harsh soaps.
What does Polyglyceryl-6 Undecylenate do in a beauty product?
It reduces the surface tension between oil and water, allowing them to blend into a stable emulsion. In cleansers, it helps surround and lift oil-based impurities so they can be rinsed away easily. In moisturizers, it helps create a smooth, uniform texture.
Is Polyglyceryl-6 Undecylenate safe for most people?
Polyglyceryl-6 Undecylenate has a strong safety profile with very low irritation and allergy potential. It is non-comedogenic and suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin. No significant safety concerns have been reported in cosmetic use.
Who should be careful with Polyglyceryl-6 Undecylenate?
Those with a known allergy to castor oil derivatives (very 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.