What Is Polyglyceryl-6 Myristyl Ether?
Polyglyceryl-6 Myristyl Ether is a plant-derived ingredient created by linking six glycerin molecules to form polyglycerin-6 and then bonding that chain to myristyl alcohol, a fatty alcohol usually sourced from coconut or palm kernel oil. The result is a gentle surface-active agent that carries both water-loving and oil-loving parts, allowing it to mingle fats and water with ease.
This type of multifunctional molecule emerged in the early 2000s when formulators began searching for alternatives to traditional PEG emulsifiers and harsher sulfated cleansers. By using naturally sourced glycerin and fatty alcohols, suppliers were able to offer a mild eco-friendly option that still met modern performance standards.
Manufacturing involves heating the glycerin so it polymerizes into polyglycerin-6, then reacting that backbone with myristyl alcohol through an etherification step. The process is efficient, produces little waste, and avoids ethylene oxide or propylene oxide, which appeals to brands focused on clean beauty.
You will most often see Polyglyceryl-6 Myristyl Ether in facial cleansers, micellar waters, makeup removers, light lotions, refreshing gel creams, sheet masks, baby care formulas, and leave-on toners that need a silky skin feel without heaviness.
Polyglyceryl-6 Myristyl Ether’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient pulls double duty in formulas, helping products feel pleasant while also performing essential technical tasks.
- Cleansing: Its amphiphilic structure lifts away dirt, excess oil and makeup then rinses off without leaving a tight or squeaky after-feel. Because it is milder than many sulfated surfactants, it suits sensitive-skin and daily-use products.
- Emulsifying: It stabilizes blends of oil and water so lotions stay smooth, cleansing oils turn milky on contact with water and masks maintain an even texture from first scoop to last use. This improves shelf life and ensures active ingredients are delivered uniformly each time you apply the product.
Who Can Use Polyglyceryl-6 Myristyl Ether
This ingredient is considered gentle enough for all skin types, including dry, oily, combination, sensitive and acne-prone skin. Because it is a mild, non-sulfated cleanser that does not strip the skin’s natural lipids, even those with easily irritated complexions usually tolerate it well. There are no specific skin types that must avoid it unless an individual knows they have a personal sensitivity to fatty alcohol derivatives.
Polyglyceryl-6 Myristyl Ether is typically sourced from vegetable glycerin and coconut or palm kernel oil, with no animal-derived inputs, so formulations using it are generally suitable for vegans and vegetarians. As always, certification depends on the full product’s supply chain and any additional ingredients.
The molecule has no documented hormonal activity or systemic absorption concerns, so pregnant or breastfeeding women can usually use products containing it. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should run their skincare choices past a qualified doctor to be on the safe side.
It is non-photosensitizing, meaning it will not make skin more sensitive to sunlight. The ingredient also plays nicely with most actives including acids, retinoids and vitamin C, so formulators can slot it into nearly any routine without worrying about destabilizing other components.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects and reactions to topical Polyglyceryl-6 Myristyl Ether can vary from person to person. The following is a list of potential issues, though they are uncommon when the ingredient is used correctly by product manufacturers and most people will not experience them.
- Mild transient redness or stinging in very sensitive skin, especially if the product also contains other active ingredients
- Allergic contact dermatitis in rare cases for individuals allergic to fatty alcohol derivatives
- Eye irritation if cleansing formulas containing the ingredient are not thoroughly rinsed from the eye area
If you notice any persistent discomfort, redness or swelling while using a product that contains this ingredient stop use immediately and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
Polyglyceryl-6 Myristyl Ether has a very low tendency to clog pores because its bulky polyglycerin backbone keeps it water soluble while the lightweight myristyl tail is less occlusive than longer chain fatty alcohols. In finished formulas it usually sits at low concentrations and rinses away cleanly, so buildup on skin is minimal.
Suitable for acne-prone and breakout-prone skin.
No pore-clogging impurities are created during its manufacturing process and it does not oxidize into comedogenic by-products, which further supports the low rating.
Summary
Polyglyceryl-6 Myristyl Ether works as a gentle cleanser and dependable emulsifier. Its split personality structure, part water loving polyglycerin and part oil loving myristyl, allows it to lift dirt and oil while keeping water and oils blended in smooth, stable formulas.
The ingredient is gaining traction in clean beauty cleansers, micellar waters and lightweight lotions, though it is not yet as mainstream as classic PEG surfactants. Formulators like its plant origin and mildness so you will likely see it in more launches over time.
Overall safety is high with very few reports of irritation or allergy, and regulatory bodies have placed no usage limits. As with any new skincare product it is smart to patch test first to make sure your skin plays nicely with the full formula.