emulsifiersViscous Liquid

Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate

Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate

emulsifieremollientsurfactant
CAS Number:66082-42-6

INCI Name

Polyglyceryl-3 Diiso...

Functions

3 Roles

Sustainability

7/10

Category

emulsifiers

What It Does

Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate is a low-HLB nonionic emulsifier created by esterifying three glycerol units with two isostearic acid molecules, resulting in a branched structure that provides excellent stability in water-in-oil emulsions. Its unique molecular architecture, featuring the branched isostearic acid chains, gives it superior spreading properties and a light, non-greasy skin feel compared to linear fatty acid polyglyceryl esters. Formulators favor this ingredient for creating stable W/O emulsions in natural and sensitive skin formulations, as it's PEG-free, mild, and provides both emulsification and emolliency in a single ingredient.

Stabilizes oil-water mixtures
Creates elegant cream textures
Enables layered formulations
Improves ingredient distribution

Technical Properties

HLB Value

6

Hydrophilic-Lipophilic Balance

Ionic Charge

nonionic

Molecular charge type

Viscosity Effect

neutral

Impact on formula thickness

Foaming Ability

low

Lather generation

Ingredient Compatibility

Works Well With

nonionic emulsifiersplant oilsesterssiliconesmost emollientslipophilic actives

Avoid Combining

strong acidsstrong basesstrong oxidizers
Compatibility analysis powered by OpenMix — open-source formulation science

Sustainability Profile

Sustainability Score

7/10

Biodegradability

readily biodegradable

Source

mixed

Feedstock

Derived from polyglycerol (typically plant-based glycerin) esterified with isostearic acid (can be plant or synthetic origin)

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