Polyglyceryl-10 Caprate: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: July 1, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Polyglyceryl-10 Caprate?

Polyglyceryl-10 Caprate is an ester created by joining decaglycerol, a chain of ten glycerin units, with capric acid, a fatty acid that naturally occurs in coconut and palm kernel oils. The result is a plant-derived ingredient that blends the water-loving quality of glycerin with the oil-loving quality of capric acid, giving it excellent surface-active properties. Interest in glycerin-based esters grew during the late 20th century as brands searched for milder and more sustainable alternatives to traditional surfactants. Manufacturers produce Polyglyceryl-10 Caprate through esterification: glycerin is polymerized into decaglycerol, then reacted with purified capric acid under controlled heat and vacuum. The finished material is a viscous liquid or soft paste that works well in both water-based and oil-based systems. Today it appears in a wide range of products such as facial cleansers, micellar waters, lightweight lotions, makeup removers, sheet masks, baby care formulas and “natural” or “clean” labeled skin care lines that avoid ethoxylated surfactants.

Polyglyceryl-10 Caprate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This ingredient is prized for one key role in formulation.

As an emulsifying agent it helps oil and water mix evenly, creating stable, smooth textures that feel pleasant on the skin. By keeping formulas from separating it improves shelf life, ensures consistent delivery of active ingredients and allows brands to reduce or eliminate harsher synthetic surfactants, making products gentler and often more biodegradable.

Who Can Use Polyglyceryl-10 Caprate

Because it is a mild emulsifier that leaves no heavy residue Polyglyceryl-10 Caprate suits most skin types including dry, normal, combination, oily and sensitive. Its lightweight nature means it will not clog pores or leave a greasy film so acne-prone users generally tolerate it well. Those with very compromised or broken skin barriers should still watch for any discomfort since even gentle surfactants can feel drying in high amounts.

The material is produced by reacting plant sourced glycerin with plant sourced fatty acids so it contains no animal derivatives. This makes it appropriate for both vegetarians and vegans.

No data suggest that topical use poses a risk during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. The molecule is large and stays mainly on the skin surface, however this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should show every product they plan to use to a qualified healthcare professional.

Polyglyceryl-10 Caprate does not cause photosensitivity and it will not interfere with sunscreen performance. It is also readily biodegradable making it a popular choice in eco-focused lines.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Side effects and reactions to the topical application of Polyglyceryl-10 Caprate vary from person to person. The following points outline potential issues but they are uncommon when the ingredient is used at the concentrations typically found in cosmetics.

Transient stinging or tingling if applied to freshly shaved or compromised skin

Mild redness or irritation in individuals with very sensitive skin

Rare allergic contact dermatitis presenting as itching or rash

Eye irritation if a product containing a high level of the ingredient accidentally enters the eye

If any discomfort or visible reaction occurs stop using the product immediately and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1/5 (very low)

Polyglyceryl-10 Caprate is a large, water-loving molecule that does not linger in pores or leave an occlusive film. Its fatty acid part, capric acid, is present in a tightly bound ester form that skin enzymes hardly break down, so it acts more like a surfactant than a true oil. Formulators typically use it at low percentages, further minimizing any clogging risk.

Because of this low rating it is generally suitable for people prone to acne or breakouts.

Products combining this emulsifier with heavy plant butters or waxes could raise the overall pore-clogging potential, so always consider the full ingredient list.

Summary

Polyglyceryl-10 Caprate is a plant-derived emulsifier that keeps oil and water blended, stabilizes textures and lets brands create gentle, eco-friendly formulas without harsher surfactants. It achieves this by pairing a glycerin backbone that loves water with a fatty acid tail that loves oil, allowing it to sit at the interface and hold both phases together.

The ingredient is popular in niche clean beauty, baby care and sensitive skin lines, though it is still less common than mainstream emulsifiers like polysorbates. When it appears, it is often highlighted as a mild, biodegradable choice.

Current research and decades of safe use show a very low risk of irritation or pore blockage. Still, everyone’s skin reacts differently so it is wise to patch test any new product containing Polyglyceryl-10 Caprate before full application.

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