What Is Polyglyceryl-10 Trierucate?
Polyglyceryl-10 trierucate is a plant-derived ingredient made by joining ten glycerin molecules into a chain, then linking that chain with three units of erucic acid, a fatty acid naturally abundant in non-GMO rapeseed oil. The result is a triester that behaves like a gentle, skin-friendly surfactant. Polyglyceryl esters first gained attention in the 1990s when formulators searched for alternatives to harsh sulfates. Thanks to their mildness and biodegradability they have since become staples in modern green and sensitive-skin formulations.
Manufacturing starts with vegetable glycerin that is heated under vacuum so individual molecules combine into decaglycerol. Erucic acid is then added in a controlled esterification step that bonds the fatty acid to the polyglycerol backbone, producing a viscous liquid that is later purified and standardized for cosmetic use.
You will most often spot polyglyceryl-10 trierucate in facial cleansers, cleansing oils, micellar waters, makeup-removing balms, baby washes, lightweight lotions and other products where brands want effective cleansing without stripping the skin.
Polyglyceryl-10 Trierucate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In formulas this ingredient serves one key purpose that delivers several practical advantages for both skin and product texture.
Cleansing: Its amphiphilic structure allows it to surround and lift away oil, dirt and makeup while remaining exceptionally mild. It lowers surface tension so water can rinse impurities off the skin, yet the fatty acid segments leave a soft conditioned feel. Because it is nonionic it also works well in sulfate-free systems and helps stabilize oil-in-water emulsions, giving formulators flexibility when creating gentle daily cleansers and makeup removers.
Who Can Use Polyglyceryl-10 Trierucate
This gentle surfactant is generally suitable for all skin types, including dry, normal, combination, oily and sensitive skin, because it cleanses without stripping the skin’s natural moisture barrier. Its fatty-acid side leaves a light conditioning layer that helps keep even reactive skin comfortable. There are no known concerns for acne-prone or rosacea-prone users, making it a versatile option in everyday cleansers and makeup removers.
Polyglyceryl-10 trierucate is manufactured from vegetable glycerin and rapeseed-derived erucic acid, so it is considered vegan and vegetarian friendly. No animal-derived feedstocks or by-products are needed in its synthesis and cruelty-free brands often choose it for that reason.
Current safety data do not indicate any reproductive or developmental hazards, so products containing this ingredient are generally viewed as safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Still, this content is not medical advice; anyone who is pregnant or nursing should check with a healthcare professional before starting a new skincare product.
The molecule does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it is not regarded as photosensitising. It is also odorless, nonvolatile and free of ethoxylates, which further reduces irritation risk.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Individual responses to topical ingredients can differ. The following list covers possible side effects of Polyglyceryl-10 trierucate, but most people will not experience any of these issues when the ingredient is used at typical cosmetic concentrations.
- Mild redness or stinging in very sensitive skin, usually temporary and disappearing after rinsing
- Contact dermatitis in the rare event of an allergy to glycerin derivatives or rapeseed-based fatty acids
- Eye irritation if a high-concentration formula accidentally gets into the eyes, though it is less irritating than many surfactants
Discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if you notice persistent irritation or other adverse reactions.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Polyglyceryl-10 trierucate is primarily a cleansing agent that rinses off and does not leave a thick occlusive film. Its large polyglycerol backbone keeps it water dispersible while the erucic acid tails are too sparse to clog pores at the low percentages used in cleansers. Because of this balance it earns a very low comedogenic score of 1, meaning it is essentially non pore clogging for most users. In practical terms people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts should find this ingredient unlikely to trigger new blemishes.
As with any surfactant the overall formula matters—heavy oils or waxes paired with it could still raise the comedogenic potential, but the ingredient itself is considered safe for acne-prone routines.
Summary
Polyglyceryl-10 trierucate is a plant sourced triester that works as a mild nonionic surfactant. Its polyglycerol section loves water and its erucic acid section loves oil, so it can grab impurities then rinse away without stripping the skin. This dual nature also helps emulsify lightweight lotions and balms, giving products a smooth rinse off feel.
While not a household name it is gaining popularity in clean beauty and sensitive skin lines that avoid sulfates. Brands value its biodegradability, vegan origin and gentle cleansing profile which makes it suitable for daily use on faces and even babies.
Safety reviews show a very low irritation and allergen risk, and the ingredient is considered pregnancy friendly. Still, every skin is unique so it is wise to patch test any new product containing Polyglyceryl-10 trierucate to confirm personal tolerance.