What Is Polyglyceryl-3 Cetyl Ether Olivate/Succinate?
Polyglyceryl-3 Cetyl Ether Olivate/Succinate is a plant-derived ingredient created by joining three main parts: polyglyceryl-3, a fatty alcohol chain called cetyl, and acids that come from olives and succinic acid. The olive portion supplies skin-friendly fatty acids while succinic acid, found in sugar beet and amber, helps link everything together. This blend was developed as brands looked for milder alternatives to petroleum-based emulsifiers in the early 2000s when “green” and “clean” beauty started to rise.
To make it, chemists start with vegetable glycerin that is processed to form polyglyceryl-3. They attach a cetyl alcohol chain to give the molecule an oil-loving side, then react it with olive fatty acids and succinic acid under controlled heat. The result is an amphiphilic compound, meaning one end loves water and the other loves oil. This balance lets it mix the two so creams stay smooth and stable.
You will most often spot Polyglyceryl-3 Cetyl Ether Olivate/Succinate in gentle facial cleansers, creamy body washes, moisturizers, baby care products, lightweight lotions, makeup removers and rinse-off masks. Brands choose it when they want to highlight plant origin claims and create formulas that feel soft yet rinse away without residue.
Polyglyceryl-3 Cetyl Ether Olivate/Succinate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multi-tasker supports both the texture and cleansing power of personal care products.
- Cleansing: Its balanced water-oil structure lifts away dirt, excess oil and makeup without stripping natural moisture, leaving skin feeling fresh and comfortable
- Emulsifying: Keeps water and oil phases blended so lotions and washes stay stable, creamy and non-greasy throughout their shelf life
Who Can Use Polyglyceryl-3 Cetyl Ether Olivate/Succinate
This ingredient is considered gentle and is generally well tolerated by all major skin types including dry, normal, combination, oily and sensitive skin. Its mild cleansing action and plant-based fatty acid profile mean it rarely upsets the skin’s natural barrier. People with very reactive or compromised skin should still monitor how their skin feels, mainly because any surfactant can occasionally provoke irritation in extremely delicate conditions.
Polyglyceryl-3 Cetyl Ether Olivate/Succinate is derived entirely from vegetable sources so it is suitable for vegetarians and vegans. No animal-derived substances are used in its manufacture and it is not tested on animals when sourced from certified cruelty-free suppliers.
Current safety data show no specific hazards for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when this ingredient is used topically at the low levels found in cosmetics. That said this is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should have their healthcare provider review all personal care products just to be safe.
The ingredient does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it is not considered photosensitising. It is also odorless, non-volatile and free of common allergens like gluten or nut proteins, making it a low-risk choice for most users.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Polyglyceryl-3 Cetyl Ether Olivate/Succinate vary from person to person. The issues listed below are possible yet unlikely when the ingredient is correctly formulated and used as directed in finished products.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness or stinging, most often in very sensitive or compromised skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals with a specific sensitivity to olive or succinic derivatives
- Temporary eye irritation if cleanser or foam accidentally enters the eyes
- Rare clogged pores or breakouts in acne-prone skin if used in a very rich leave-on formula
If you notice any of these effects stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 (very low likelihood of clogging pores)
The molecule is an ester that balances lightweight plant-derived glycerin with a single cetyl fatty chain. This gives it mild emulsifying power without the heavy, waxy feel linked to higher comedogenic scores. It is mostly used at low percentages that rinse away or sit lightly on the skin, keeping pore blockage risk minimal.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin, especially in rinse-off or light leave-on formulas. Very oily or severely congested skin types may still prefer patch testing richer creams that contain it alongside other occlusive ingredients.
Summary
Polyglyceryl-3 Cetyl Ether Olivate/Succinate works as a gentle cleanser and emulsifier. Its water-loving glycerin backbone grabs onto dirt while its oil-loving cetyl and olive acid side keeps oils and water blended, so products stay smooth and feel soft on the skin.
The ingredient shows up in a growing number of “clean beauty” cleansers, lotions and baby products but it is not yet as common as classic emulsifiers like polysorbates. Formulators choose it when they want a plant-based label and a mild skin feel.
Current research and use levels point to a very safe profile with low irritation and low comedogenicity. Even so every skin is different so patch testing a new product that contains it is the simplest way to check personal tolerance.