What Is Polyglyceryl-10 Nonaerucate?
Polyglyceryl-10 Nonaerucate is a plant-derived ingredient made by joining ten glycerin units with erucic acid, a fatty acid most often sourced from non-GMO rapeseed oil. The result is a mild, oil-loving compound that blends smoothly with water-based ingredients. Chemists create it through a controlled esterification process where heat and pressure link the glycerin and fatty acid without the need for harsh solvents. Interest in this material grew in the early 2000s as brands looked for gentler, more sustainable alternatives to traditional emulsifiers and surfactants. Today you will spot it in moisturizers, cleansing balms, makeup removers, baby lotions, sheet masks and soothing serums where a light skin-conditioning touch is desired.
Polyglyceryl-10 Nonaerucate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Its main job in a formula is skin conditioning, meaning it helps soften, smooth and support the skin barrier. Because it is partly water-loving and partly oil-loving, it can also help disperse oils evenly, giving products a pleasing texture while leaving skin feeling hydrated rather than greasy.
Who Can Use Polyglyceryl-10 Nonaerucate
This ingredient is considered gentle enough for all skin types including dry, normal, combination oily and sensitive skin because it supports the barrier without leaving an occlusive film. Those with very oily or acne-prone skin generally tolerate it well thanks to its lightweight texture though results can vary depending on the overall formula.
Polyglyceryl-10 Nonaerucate is derived from vegetable glycerin and non-GMO rapeseed oil so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. No animal-based raw materials or by-products are used in its production.
Current safety data show no specific risks for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the ingredient is used topically in cosmetic concentrations. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review all skincare products with a qualified doctor to be sure they meet individual needs.
The molecule is chemically stable and does not make skin more reactive to sunlight so it does not cause photosensitivity. It can be applied morning or night and pairs well with most actives and sunscreen filters.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Polyglyceryl-10 Nonaerucate differ from person to person. The points below outline potential issues that might occur in rare cases. When used at standard cosmetic levels most users will not notice any undesirable effects.
- Mild redness or stinging in extremely sensitive skin
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to rapeseed-derived fatty acids
- Occasional pore congestion if formulated in very rich products applied to oily acne-prone skin
If any irritation or discomfort develops stop using the product and seek guidance from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 (very low likelihood of clogging pores)
Polyglyceryl-10 Nonaerucate has a lightweight structure and a balanced water-oil affinity that lets it sit on the surface without forming a heavy, occlusive film. It is also used at low concentrations, further reducing any chance of pore blockage. Limited lab data and user reports show very few cases of breakouts directly linked to this ingredient. For these reasons it earns a 1 out of 5 on the comedogenic scale.
Suitable for acne-prone and congestion-prone skin when included in well-formulated products.
As with any emulsifier, the overall formula matters; heavy butters or waxes paired with it could still contribute to breakouts even though the ingredient itself is low risk.
Summary
Polyglyceryl-10 Nonaerucate is primarily a skin-conditioning agent that softens and smooths while helping oil and water mix for a pleasant, non-greasy feel. Its dual affinity lets it reinforce the skin barrier and improve texture without heaviness, making it versatile in cleansers, creams and serums.
While not a blockbuster ingredient found in every product, it enjoys steady use among brands focused on gentle, plant-derived formulas and has grown more common as clean beauty trends favor mild emulsifiers.
Current research and regulatory reviews rate it as low risk with minimal irritation potential. Still, skin is personal, so performing a quick patch test whenever you try a new product containing Polyglyceryl-10 Nonaerucate is the smartest way to ensure a comfortable experience.