What Is Polyglyceryl-10 Undecylenate?
Polyglyceryl-10 Undecylenate is an ester created by linking decaglycerol, a chain of ten glycerin units, with undecylenic acid, a fatty acid that can be obtained from castor oil. The result is a plant-derived ingredient that blends water-loving and oil-loving parts in one molecule, making it ideal for cleansing tasks in skin care.
The use of glycerin-based esters in cosmetics dates back to the mid-20th century as brands searched for milder alternatives to soap. Over time chemists discovered that pairing multi-unit glycerins with natural fatty acids improved both skin feel and cleansing power. Polyglyceryl-10 Undecylenate emerged from this research and gained popularity in the 2000s when formulators began favoring biodegradable, PEG-free surfactants.
Production involves heating decaglycerol with undecylenic acid under controlled conditions so the two components bond, then purifying the mixture to remove any excess reactants. The finished material is usually supplied as a clear to pale yellow liquid.
You will most often find Polyglyceryl-10 Undecylenate in gentle facial cleansers, micellar waters, creamy makeup removers, hydrating masks and baby care washes where a soft cleanse is essential.
Polyglyceryl-10 Undecylenate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Below is the main way this ingredient supports a formula
Cleansing: Polyglyceryl-10 Undecylenate lifts away dirt, excess oil and makeup without stripping the skin. Its balanced structure allows it to mix with both water and oil so it can trap impurities and rinse them off easily, leaving skin feeling fresh yet comfortable.
Who Can Use Polyglyceryl-10 Undecylenate
This mild cleanser suits most skin types including oily, dry, combination and sensitive skin because it removes grime without upsetting the skin’s natural balance. Extremely sensitive or broken skin could still react to any surfactant, so extra care is wise in those cases.
The ingredient is plant derived with no animal sourced components which makes it suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Many brands also choose it when formulating cruelty free products.
No safety warnings currently flag Polyglyceryl-10 Undecylenate for pregnant or breastfeeding women. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should ask a doctor before starting a new skincare product just to be safe.
The molecule does not make skin more prone to sunburn so it is not linked to photosensitivity. It also works across a wide pH range and plays nicely with most other cosmetic ingredients, adding to its broad suitability.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Polyglyceryl-10 Undecylenate differ from person to person. The points below list potential side effects yet most users will not notice any problems when the ingredient is used correctly in a finished product.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness or itching
- Stinging if the product gets into the eyes
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis for individuals sensitive to fatty acid esters
- Dryness when used in very high amounts or combined with other strong cleansers
If any unwanted reaction occurs stop using the product and seek medical advice if symptoms persist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 (very low)
Polyglyceryl-10 Undecylenate is a light surfactant that rinses off easily and does not linger in pores, so it is unlikely to clog them. Its structure is more water friendly than oil heavy, which further limits the chance of buildup on the skin.
This low score means the ingredient is generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts.
As with any cleanser the finished formula matters. A product that pairs this ingredient with heavy oils or waxes could still trigger congestion, so always consider the full ingredient list.
Summary
Polyglyceryl-10 Undecylenate is a plant derived surfactant that lifts dirt, oil and makeup while keeping skin comfortable. It works by combining a water loving glycerin backbone with an oil loving fatty acid tail, allowing it to grab impurities and wash them away.
Though not as famous as classic ingredients like glycerin or coconut based cleansers it has gained steady popularity among brands looking for gentle, biodegradable and PEG free options.
Safety data show it is well tolerated for most skin types with a very low risk of irritation or pore clogging. Still, skin can react unpredictably so it is wise to patch test any new product that contains it before full use.