What Is Disodium Polyglyceryl-3 Caprate/Caprylate Sulfosuccinate?
Disodium Polyglyceryl-3 Caprate/Caprylate Sulfosuccinate is a plant-derived surfactant created by combining polyglycerin with medium-chain fatty acids from coconut or palm oil and then attaching a sulfosuccinate group. The result is a mild water-soluble powder or liquid salt that loves both oil and water, a quality that makes it an effective cleanser. Although sulfosuccinate chemistry has been used in personal care since the 1950s, this specific polyglyceryl version is newer and was developed to meet the demand for gentle sulfate-free cleansers.
Manufacturing starts with glycerin, which is polymerized into polyglyceryl-3. This backbone is esterified with capric and caprylic acids, then reacted with maleic anhydride and finally neutralized with sodium hydroxide to form the disodium salt. The process yields a biodegradable ingredient that is less likely to irritate skin compared with traditional sulfates.
You will spot Disodium Polyglyceryl-3 Caprate/Caprylate Sulfosuccinate in facial cleansers, micellar waters, foaming masks, baby washes, body washes, sulfate-free shampoos and even makeup removers. Brands favor it when they want a rich but gentle lather that rinses clean without stripping natural oils.
Disodium Polyglyceryl-3 Caprate/Caprylate Sulfosuccinate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient earns its place in formulas thanks to three key roles
- Cleansing: Lifts away dirt, excess oil and makeup while respecting the skin barrier so skin feels clean not tight
- Cleansing: Provides solubilizing power that helps disperse oily ingredients in water-based products improving overall formula stability
- Foam Boosting: Enhances and stabilizes foam giving a dense creamy lather that consumers associate with effective cleansing
Who Can Use Disodium Polyglyceryl-3 Caprate/Caprylate Sulfosuccinate
This surfactant is considered gentle enough for most skin types including dry, normal, combination and oily skin. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it better than harsher sulfate cleansers because its larger polyglyceryl structure reduces irritation potential. Very reactive or eczema-prone skin should still proceed cautiously, as any foaming agent can sometimes disturb a compromised barrier.
It is derived from plant glycerin and coconut or palm fatty acids, so formulations containing it are typically suitable for vegans and vegetarians unless the overall product includes animal-derived additives.
Current safety data show no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is used topically at normal cosmetic levels. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should check with a doctor before starting new skincare just to be safe.
The ingredient does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and there are no known issues regarding UV exposure. It also works across a wide pH range which helps formulators create gentle products that match skin’s natural pH.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Disodium Polyglyceryl-3 Caprate/Caprylate Sulfosuccinate vary from person to person. The effects listed below are possible but uncommon when the ingredient is used correctly in finished products
- Mild skin dryness or tightness
- Temporary stinging if applied to broken or severely irritated skin
- Eye irritation if the cleanser accidentally gets into the eyes
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis presenting as redness itchiness or small bumps
If any of these effects occur stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0–1. Disodium Polyglyceryl-3 Caprate/Caprylate Sulfosuccinate is a highly water-soluble surfactant that rinses clean and does not leave an oily film that could block pores. Its large polyglyceryl backbone further reduces the chance of penetration into follicular openings, keeping the risk of comedone formation extremely low. Suitability: generally safe for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin. Because it is an anionic cleanser it is used at low percentages and is typically removed from the skin after a short contact time, factors that lower comedogenic concern even more.
Summary
Disodium Polyglyceryl-3 Caprate/Caprylate Sulfosuccinate functions as a gentle cleanser, solubilizer and foam booster. Its amphiphilic structure binds to oil and water, lifting grime while the polyglyceryl section cushions skin and the sulfosuccinate group creates dense creamy foam that rinses off easily. Although not yet as famous as coco-glucoside or decyl glucoside it is gaining traction with brands looking for sulfate-free formulas that still satisfy consumers who love rich lather. Current research and long-standing surfactant safety data indicate a low irritation and sensitization profile when used at normal cosmetic levels, but as with any new product it is smart to do a small patch test first to confirm personal compatibility.