What Is Polyglyceryl-6 Myristate?
Polyglyceryl-6 Myristate is an ester created by bonding hexaglycerol, a chain of six glycerol molecules often sourced from plant oils, with myristic acid typically obtained from coconut or palm kernel oil. The result is a naturally derived, biodegradable ingredient that serves as a gentle alternative to traditional synthetic emulsifiers. Interest in polyglyceryl esters took off in the early 2000s when brands began looking for PEG-free ways to stabilize oil-and-water blends, leading formulators to adopt Polyglyceryl-6 Myristate for its clean-label appeal and skin-friendly profile.
Manufacturing starts with food-grade glycerol, which undergoes controlled heating to link the molecules into hexaglycerol. This larger backbone is then reacted with purified myristic acid under vacuum and moderate heat, forming the final ester without the need for harsh solvents. The resulting material is a light, waxy solid or viscous liquid that melts easily into cosmetic bases.
You will spot Polyglyceryl-6 Myristate in a wide range of products such as facial moisturizers, lotions, sunscreens, cleansing balms, sheet mask essences, color cosmetics, baby creams and anhydrous balms where a mild, plant-based emulsifier is desired.
Polyglyceryl-6 Myristate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators rely on this ingredient for one clear purpose that delivers multiple payoffs.
Emulsifying: Polyglyceryl-6 Myristate helps oil and water mix into a stable, uniform emulsion. This improves texture, prevents separation during shelf life, enhances the spreadability of creams and lotions and allows for lighter, fast-absorbing formulas without heavy synthetic surfactants.
Who Can Use Polyglyceryl-6 Myristate
This gentle emulsifier suits dry, oily, combination and sensitive skin because it is nonionic and has a very low irritation profile. Extremely reactive or allergy-prone individuals should still review full product ingredient lists but Polyglyceryl-6 Myristate itself is not known to aggravate common skin concerns.
The raw materials are typically sourced from vegetable glycerin and plant-derived myristic acid, so finished products using certified plant origins are generally vegan and vegetarian friendly. Those following a strict lifestyle should verify that the supplier did not use animal fats when producing myristic acid.
Current safety assessments show no reproductive or developmental hazards, so products containing this ingredient are considered compatible with pregnancy and breastfeeding. This is not medical advice; anyone who is pregnant or nursing should have a doctor review any skincare routine.
Polyglyceryl-6 Myristate does not cause photosensitivity and it does not interfere with UV filters. It is odorless, gluten free and unlikely to affect skin tone or interact with common actives like vitamin C or retinoids.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Polyglyceryl-6 Myristate vary from person to person. The effects listed below are possible but uncommon when the ingredient is used at standard cosmetic levels in a well-formulated product.
- Mild skin irritation such as transient redness or itching
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to fatty acid esters
- Rare clogged pores or small breakouts in very acne-prone users if combined with heavier oils
If any discomfort or unexpected reaction occurs stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5. While myristic acid on its own can rank higher, esterifying it to a polyglycerol backbone increases water affinity and reduces the chance of the molecule lodging in pores. Most finished formulas use it at low percentages strictly for emulsifying, so the likelihood of clogging is minimal. With that in mind it is normally suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin, provided the rest of the formula is also lightweight. Keep an eye on accompanying oils and butters, as those have a much larger impact on pore blockage than this emulsifier itself.
Summary
Polyglyceryl-6 Myristate is a plant-derived emulsifier that lets oil and water mingle into smooth, stable creams, lotions and makeup without the need for PEGs or harsh surfactants. It works by positioning its glycerol side toward water and its fatty acid tail toward oil, creating a microscopic bridge that stops separation and improves spreadability. The ingredient enjoys moderate popularity in modern clean beauty and baby care where gentleness and biodegradability are selling points, though it is still less common than classic emulsifiers like polysorbates.
Current safety data show a very low risk of irritation, sensitization or systemic toxicity, making it a safe bet for most users. As with any new skincare product, perform a small patch test first to confirm your skin’s personal tolerance.