What Is Polyglyceryl-10 Hexaerucate?
Polyglyceryl-10 Hexaerucate is a plant-derived ingredient created by joining ten glycerin units with six molecules of erucic acid, a fatty acid naturally found in rapeseed oil. The result is a large, skin-friendly molecule that loves both oil and water, which makes it a useful helper in many modern formulas.
The rise of clean beauty and the push for alternatives to petroleum-based ingredients led chemists to explore vegetable oils and renewable raw materials in the late 1990s. Through that search, polyglyceryl esters like Polyglyceryl-10 Hexaerucate gained popularity because they deliver performance while meeting eco-friendly standards. Today they are manufactured through a two-step reaction: first glycerin molecules are condensed into decaglycerol, then this backbone is esterified with erucic acid sourced from non-GMO rapeseed. The process is done without harsh solvents, leaving behind a biodegradable, PEG-free ingredient.
You will most often spot Polyglyceryl-10 Hexaerucate in rinse-off cleansers, balm cleansers, cream washes, micellar waters, makeup removers, hydrating masks and lightweight moisturizers. Brands turn to it when they want a gentle cleanser or a stable, milky texture without relying on traditional surfactants.
Polyglyceryl-10 Hexaerucate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasker supports both the performance and feel of a formula.
- Cleansing: Its oil-loving part grabs hold of makeup, sunscreen and excess sebum while its water-loving side lets those impurities rinse away easily. The result is effective yet mild cleansing that does not leave skin tight.
- Emulsifying: It helps blend oils and water into a smooth, stable emulsion so creams stay uniform and pleasant to apply. This also allows formulators to reduce the amount of traditional surfactants, leading to a gentler end product.
Who Can Use Polyglyceryl-10 Hexaerucate
Because it is both gentle and non-stripping, Polyglyceryl-10 Hexaerucate suits nearly all skin types. Dry skin benefits from its fatty-acid backbone that helps keep cleansing comfortable while oily and combination skin enjoy its ability to dissolve excess sebum without leaving a greasy film. Sensitive skin generally tolerates it well since it is free of sulfates, PEGs and added fragrance. There are no known reasons for acne-prone users to avoid it although, as with any ingredient, individual responses differ.
The molecule is synthesized entirely from plant sources—glycerin and rapeseed‐derived erucic acid—so it is appropriate for vegans and vegetarians. No animal by-products or animal testing are required in its standard production.
Current safety data indicate no reproductive or developmental risks, meaning products containing this emulsifier are typically considered safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Still, this is not medical advice; anyone who is expecting or nursing should review all skincare choices with a qualified healthcare provider.
Polyglyceryl-10 Hexaerucate is not known to increase photosensitivity, so daytime use does not demand extra sun precautions beyond a normal SPF routine.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Polyglyceryl-10 Hexaerucate differ from person to person. The points below outline possible but uncommon effects when the ingredient is properly formulated in a cosmetic product. Most users will not notice any of these issues.
- Mild redness or irritation
- Transient stinging on very compromised skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to rapeseed-derived fatty acids
- Eye discomfort if a concentrated product accidentally enters the eyes
If any discomfort, redness or swelling develops stop use and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Polyglyceryl-10 Hexaerucate is a large, highly hydrophilic ester that tends to sit on the skin surface and rinse away rather than settling into pores. Its fatty acid chain is counterbalanced by ten glycerin units, making the molecule less likely to solidify or clog follicles. Limited anecdotal reports and available lab data point to a very low incidence of breakouts, which is why it receives a rating of 1.
With such a low score, the ingredient is generally considered suitable for people who are prone to acne or congestion.
As with any cleansing agent, the finished formula matters; if paired with heavy oils or waxes the overall product could still be pore clogging even though this single component is not.
Summary
Polyglyceryl-10 Hexaerucate acts primarily as a gentle cleanser and as an emulsifier that keeps oil and water phases smoothly blended. Its glycerin rich backbone grabs onto water while the erucic acid tails attach to oils, letting it lift makeup and grime then rinse clean without harsh surfactants.
Although not yet a household name, it is gaining traction among clean beauty and indie brands looking for plant derived, PEG free alternatives that are both effective and biodegradable.
Current research shows it to be low risk for irritation, photosensitivity and comedogenicity, making it safe for most users when applied as directed. Still, skin can be unpredictable so it is smart to patch test any new product that features this ingredient before applying it widely.