What Is Polyglyceryl-6 Caprylate/Caprate?
Polyglyceryl-6 Caprylate/Caprate is a plant-derived ingredient created by linking six glycerin units to fatty acids that come from coconut or palm kernels. The result is a mild, oil-like substance that brings together water and oil in a stable mix. First introduced in the early 2000s as brands searched for cleaner alternatives to traditional surfactants, it quickly gained traction for being both gentle and effective.
The production process starts with glycerin obtained from vegetable oils. Through a method called esterification, six glycerin molecules bond with caprylic and capric acids. Manufacturers favor this process because it avoids harsh solvents and keeps the final material biodegradable.
You’ll spot Polyglyceryl-6 Caprylate/Caprate in micellar waters, cream cleansers, facial masks, lightweight moisturizers, baby care items and even some sunscreens. Its ability to keep formulas stable while offering a soft, non-stripping cleanse makes it a versatile pick across many product categories.
Polyglyceryl-6 Caprylate/Caprate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasker serves more than one purpose in a formula, helping products work better and feel better on skin.
- Light stabilizer: Helps protect light-sensitive ingredients such as certain vitamins or botanical extracts so a product stays effective for longer once opened
- Cleansing agent: Acts as a gentle surfactant that lifts away dirt, makeup and excess oil without leaving the skin tight or dry, making it ideal for daily use and for sensitive skin types
Who Can Use Polyglyceryl-6 Caprylate/Caprate
This ingredient is gentle enough for dry, normal, combination and oily skin, including sensitive and baby skin, since it cleanses without stripping natural moisture. Those with severely compromised or eczema-prone skin should still monitor how their skin feels because even mild surfactants can sometimes be too much during active flare-ups.
Because it is derived from plant glycerin and coconut or palm kernel fatty acids, it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. No animal-derived substances or by-products are used in its manufacture.
Current safety data show no known issues for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when Polyglyceryl-6 Caprylate/Caprate is used in cosmetic amounts. This is not medical advice; anyone who is expecting or nursing should consult a healthcare professional before adding new skincare products, just to be safe.
The molecule does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it does not raise the risk of sunburn or hyperpigmentation. It also plays well with most other cosmetic ingredients, making it a flexible choice in multi-step routines.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to Polyglyceryl-6 Caprylate/Caprate differ from person to person. The following list covers potential side effects, though they are uncommon when the ingredient is used correctly in finished products.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness or tightness on very sensitive or broken skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis in rare cases where an individual is specifically allergic to one of the fatty acid components
- Eye stinging if the formula accidentally gets into the eyes during cleansing
- Dryness when used in high concentrations or combined with other strong surfactants
If any discomfort or visible reaction develops, discontinue use and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
Polyglyceryl-6 Caprylate/Caprate is mostly hydrophilic thanks to its multiple glycerin units, so it rinses off easily and is unlikely to clog pores. The short-chain caprylic and capric fatty acids are lightweight and have low comedogenic potential on their own, which keeps the overall rating close to zero but not quite at absolute zero because any oil-derived component can act occlusively in very heavy formulas.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin under normal use.
Formulation matters: if the ingredient sits in a product packed with rich butters or waxes the final blend could still feel heavy, so assess the full ingredient list rather than this single component in isolation.
Summary
Polyglyceryl-6 Caprylate/Caprate works as a gentle cleanser and light stabilizer. Its glycerin backbone grabs water while its fatty acid tails grab oil, letting it lift away grime and disperse light-sensitive actives evenly so they stay potent longer. Brands like it for clean beauty concepts and baby care, so its presence is growing though it is still less common than classic surfactants like cocamidopropyl betaine.
Current research and industry use show it to be safe for most skin types with a very low risk of irritation or pore clogging. As with any new skincare ingredient it is wise to patch test a new product first to make sure your skin agrees with the complete formula.