What Is Polyglyceryl-6 Apricot Kernelate?
Polyglyceryl-6 Apricot Kernelate is a plant-derived ingredient created by joining the fatty acids found in apricot kernel oil with a chain of six glycerin units. This combination gives it a mild, skin-friendly profile that suits modern clean-beauty formulas. Apricot kernels have long been pressed for their nourishing oil, but chemists began turning that oil into more versatile esters in the past few decades to meet the need for natural yet effective emulsifiers. The process involves first extracting the oil from crushed apricot seeds, separating its fatty acids, then reacting them with polyglycerin-6 under controlled heat and vacuum. The result is a biodegradable, PEG-free compound that behaves well in many water-and-oil blends.
You will typically spot Polyglyceryl-6 Apricot Kernelate in moisturizers, lightweight lotions, face masks, gentle cleansers, baby care items, hair conditioners and sun care products. Brands favor it when they want a silky feel without synthetic silicones or conventional emulsifiers.
Polyglyceryl-6 Apricot Kernelate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient pulls double duty in formulas, making products both feel better and stay blended.
- Emollient – softens and smooths the skin surface, helping creams glide on easily while reducing rough patches
- Emulsifying – binds water and oil phases so lotions stay stable, creamy and uniform throughout their shelf life
Who Can Use Polyglyceryl-6 Apricot Kernelate
This ingredient is generally friendly to all skin types, including dry, normal, combination and oily. Its lightweight emollient nature means it moisturizes without leaving a heavy film, so even acne-prone users often tolerate it well. Sensitive skin usually gets along with it too because it is free of fragrances and harsh solvents.
Polyglyceryl-6 Apricot Kernelate is plant derived and contains no animal by-products so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. The production process relies on glycerin sourced from plants and fatty acids from apricot kernels, not animal fats.
Most experts consider it safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding since it is non-penetrating and not linked to hormonal effects. That said this is not medical advice. Anyone who is pregnant or nursing should show the full ingredient list of any product to a qualified health professional before adding it to a routine.
The ingredient does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight so it does not raise the risk of sunburn or hyperpigmentation. It is also odorless which makes it a good fit for people who avoid fragrance.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Polyglyceryl-6 Apricot Kernelate vary from person to person. The points below list potential side effects but they are rare and most users will not experience them if the product is well formulated and used as directed.
- Mild redness or stinging on very sensitive skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to apricot or related stone fruits
- Eye irritation if the raw ingredient accidentally gets into the eyes during manufacturing or DIY use
- Breakouts in people extremely prone to clogged pores when used in very rich formulas
If any irritation, swelling or other negative reaction occurs stop using the product right away and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5. Polyglyceryl-6 Apricot Kernelate is made by linking non-greasy glycerin units to the fatty acids of apricot oil, which lowers the likelihood that it will clog pores compared with the raw oil itself. Its molecular size keeps most of the ingredient on the skin surface acting as a conditioning film rather than sinking into pores. For these reasons it is generally considered low risk for acne and suitable for breakout-prone skin. Only in very heavy, oil-rich formulas could it potentially contribute to congestion.
Summary
Polyglyceryl-6 Apricot Kernelate works as an emollient that softens skin and as an emulsifier that holds water and oil together. The fatty acid part smooths and conditions while the polyglycerin part attracts water and anchors the oil phase, creating stable light textures without synthetic PEGs.
The ingredient is gaining traction in clean and baby care products but is still a niche choice compared with classic emulsifiers like cetearyl alcohol. Formulators who want vegan biodegradable alternatives often pick it for its gentle feel and versatility.
Safety studies and real-world use show a very low irritation risk, and it carries no known hormonal or phototoxic concerns. As with any new skincare ingredient users should try a patch test first to be sure their skin agrees with it.