What Is Polyglyceryl-2 Dipolyhydroxystearate?
Polyglyceryl-2 Dipolyhydroxystearate is a plant-derived ingredient made by linking two glycerin molecules together, then attaching them to modified castor oil fatty acids. Chemists call this process esterification, and it creates a mild, oil-compatible substance that still dissolves well in water. The raw materials—glycerin from vegetable oils and hydroxystearic acid from castor oil—are renewable, which helps keep the final ingredient biodegradable.
The cosmetic industry first showed interest in this material in the 1990s, when formulators were searching for gentle alternatives to traditional emulsifiers. Over time it proved reliable at stabilising high-oil formulas such as water-free creams, tinted moisturisers and stick foundations, so its use spread quickly.
Today you will most often see Polyglyceryl-2 Dipolyhydroxystearate in rich moisturisers, cleansing balms, makeup removers, sunscreens and solid makeup sticks. It helps keep the oil and water parts from separating, giving a smooth, even texture that feels pleasant on skin.
Polyglyceryl-2 Dipolyhydroxystearate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient is valued mainly for its skin conditioning ability, which shows up in several ways inside a finished product.
As a skin conditioning agent it helps soften the surface of the skin, reduces the tight feeling that can follow cleansing and leaves a light protective film that supports long-lasting moisture. Its mild nature also lets brands create formulas suitable for sensitive skin without sacrificing a luxurious feel.
Who Can Use Polyglyceryl-2 Dipolyhydroxystearate
This ingredient is gentle and works well for most skin types including dry, normal, oily and sensitive skin. Because it leaves only a thin, breathable film it rarely feels heavy or greasy so even combination or acne-prone users usually tolerate it.
Polyglyceryl-2 Dipolyhydroxystearate is made from vegetable glycerin and castor oil so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. No animal-derived raw materials are involved in its production.
Based on current safety data it is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should show the full ingredient list of any product to a qualified health professional before use.
The ingredient does not increase photosensitivity which means it will not make skin more likely to burn in the sun. Normal daily sun protection habits are still important, especially if the finished product does not contain SPF.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Everyone’s skin is different so the reactions listed below are possible yet uncommon. When the ingredient is used at standard levels in a properly made product most people will not notice any problems.
- Mild redness or stinging on very reactive skin
- Clogged pores if paired with already heavy or highly comedogenic oils
- Contact dermatitis in the rare case of individual allergy to castor oil derivatives
If irritation or any other unwanted reaction occurs stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Polyglyceryl-2 Dipolyhydroxystearate is derived from lightweight glycerin and modified castor oil fatty acids, both of which sit low on the comedogenic scale once esterified. The molecule forms a thin, breathable film rather than an occlusive layer, so it is unlikely to obstruct pores by itself. However formulas that combine it with heavier waxes or butters could raise the overall comedogenicity, which is why its score is not a perfect zero.
Most people prone to acne or breakouts can use products containing this ingredient without issues, provided the rest of the formula is also low in pore-clogging materials.
Because it helps stabilise oil-rich products, you might encounter it in balms or stick makeup that feel richer on skin. In such formats the combined ingredient package, not Polyglyceryl-2 Dipolyhydroxystearate alone, decides whether pores become congested.
Summary
Polyglyceryl-2 Dipolyhydroxystearate conditions skin by forming a light, moisture-friendly film that softens and reduces post-cleansing tightness. At the same time its dual oil-and-water affinity lets it act as a gentle emulsifier that keeps high-oil formulas smooth and stable.
This versatile performance has made it a quiet favourite in modern formulations such as cleansing balms, rich moisturisers and solid makeup sticks, though it rarely gets headline attention on labels.
Safety reviews and decades of use show it to be low risk for irritation or sensitisation, vegan friendly and biodegradable. Still, everyone’s skin is unique, so patch testing any new product that contains it is a smart precaution.