Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate: 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 Laurate?

Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate is a plant-derived ingredient created by linking ten glycerin units together and then attaching lauric acid, a fatty acid most often sourced from coconut or palm kernel oil. Chemically it is classified as 1,2,3-propanetriol homopolymer dodecanoate, but in everyday terms it is a mild, nonionic compound that helps water and oil mix smoothly. It emerged in the 1990s when formulators began looking for gentle, bio-based alternatives to traditional surfactants that could soften skin without clogging pores or causing irritation.

Production involves heating vegetable-based glycerin so the molecules bond into a polyglycerin chain, then esterifying that chain with lauric acid to create a stable, skin-friendly material. Because it is both hydrophilic and lipophilic it slips easily into many product types including facial cleansers, lightweight moisturizers, hydrating toners, sheet masks, baby lotions and sensitive-skin serums.

Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This ingredient is prized for one key function in cosmetics.

Skin conditioning: Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate forms a thin, breathable film that helps skin hold on to moisture, leaving it feeling soft and smooth. It can reduce the tight, dry sensation some cleansers cause, boost the silky texture of lotions and improve the spreadability of serums. Because it is lightweight and non greasy it conditions without blocking pores, making formulas feel fresh rather than heavy.

Who Can Use Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate

Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate is gentle enough for virtually every skin type including dry, combination and sensitive skin, yet it is also light enough for oily or acne-prone skin because it will not clog pores. Those with a known coconut or palm allergy should check the source of the lauric acid before use, as trace residues could trigger a reaction.

The ingredient is plant derived and contains no animal by-products, so it aligns with vegan and vegetarian values provided the finished formula is cruelty free and the palm oil, if used, comes from a sustainable supplier.

No data shows any risk for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate is applied topically at the levels used in cosmetics. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should discuss all skincare products with a healthcare professional to be safe.

Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and it has no known interactions with common cosmetic actives. It can be used morning or night without special precautions.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate vary from person to person. The following list covers potential but uncommon side effects when the ingredient is properly formulated in a cosmetic product. Most users will not experience these issues.

  • Localized redness or itching
  • Mild stinging on very compromised or freshly exfoliated skin
  • Rare allergic contact dermatitis linked to sensitivity to coconut or palm derivatives
  • Isolated breakout if the overall formula contains additional comedogenic ingredients

If you notice any discomfort or irritation stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1/5

Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate is a lightweight ester of glycerin and lauric acid that spreads easily and rinses clean, leaving minimal residue on skin. Its large molecular structure prevents it from slipping into pores and hardening the way heavier oils can, which keeps the risk of pore blockage low. For that reason it earns a near non-comedogenic score of 1.

Sensitive and breakout-prone users generally tolerate it well, although final performance depends on the other ingredients in the formula.

Because it is water dispersible it is less likely to build up on skin over time, further reducing clogging potential.

Summary

Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate conditions skin by forming a light moisture-holding veil that softens texture without heaviness. It does this by combining the humectant nature of glycerin with the skin-friendly fatty acid lauric acid, giving it the ability to attract water while smoothing the surface.

While not as famous as hyaluronic acid or ceramides it appears in a growing number of gentle cleansers, milky toners and sensitive-skin lotions because formulators value its mildness and plant origin.

Safety data shows a very low irritation and sensitization rate, so most people can use it daily with confidence. As with any new cosmetic ingredient conduct a simple patch test when trying a fresh product containing Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, especially if your skin is reactive or you have known allergies.

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