What Is Polyglyceryl-6 Palmitate/Succinate?
Polyglyceryl-6 Palmitate/Succinate is a plant-derived ingredient created by joining polyglycerin-6 with a blend of palmitic acid, which comes from fatty acids in palm or coconut oil, and succinic acid, a naturally occurring acid often sourced from sugar fermentation. The result is a mild, biodegradable compound that carries both oil-loving and water-loving parts, making it a handy helper in modern skincare.
The idea of linking natural fatty acids to polyglycerin dates back to the rising demand for “cleaner” surfactants in the late 1990s. Chemists wanted an alternative to harsher sulfates, so they explored polyglycerin esters. Over time formulators discovered that combining palmitic and succinic acids with polyglycerin-6 produced an ingredient that could cleanse, mix oil with water and feel pleasant on skin.
Manufacturing starts with vegetable glycerin that undergoes a controlled heating process to form polyglycerin-6. This long-chain molecule is then reacted with palmitic and succinic acids under vacuum and gentle heat. The final material is purified to remove unreacted residues, yielding a pale, waxy substance that dissolves easily into cosmetic bases.
You’ll spot Polyglyceryl-6 Palmitate/Succinate in facial cleansers, micellar waters, cream-to-foam washes, makeup removers, light lotions and sheet mask essences. It also appears in baby washes and sulfate-free shampoos where extra mildness is key.
Polyglyceryl-6 Palmitate/Succinate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasker brings two main perks to a formula:
- Cleansing: Its balanced oil-and-water structure lifts away dirt, excess oil and makeup without stripping skin, helping products feel gentle yet effective
- Emulsifying: It keeps oily and watery ingredients evenly mixed so creams stay smooth, lotions remain stable and clear gels don’t separate during shelf life
This ingredient is considered gentle enough for most skin types, including dry, oily, combination and sensitive skin. Its lightweight nature lets it cleanse without leaving a heavy film, while its nonionic structure keeps the risk of irritation low.
Polyglyceryl-6 Palmitate/Succinate is sourced from vegetable glycerin and plant fatty acids, so it fits comfortably into vegan and vegetarian lifestyles. No animal by-products are involved in its production.
Pregnant or breastfeeding users are not known to face any extra risk from topical use, as the molecule stays mainly on the skin’s surface and is not linked to hormonal activity. Still, this information is not medical advice; anyone expecting or nursing should review all personal care products with a qualified health professional to be certain they meet individual needs.
The ingredient does not absorb UV light or make skin more reactive to the sun, so it is not regarded as photosensitising. It is also fragrance-free and gluten-free, making it suitable for people who avoid those components.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Polyglyceryl-6 Palmitate/Succinate differ from person to person. The effects listed below are possible but uncommon when the ingredient is used at normal cosmetic levels and in well-formulated products.
- Mild skin irritation
- Transient redness or stinging on very reactive or damaged skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitised to fatty acid esters
- Eye discomfort if a cleanser or shampoo containing the ingredient is poorly rinsed
- Occlusive breakouts in users prone to acne when the rest of the formula is rich in heavy oils
If any unwanted reaction occurs stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Polyglyceryl-6 Palmitate/Succinate earns a low score because its large, water-loving structure keeps it sitting mostly on the skin surface where it can be rinsed away. While it contains palmitic acid residues, they are bound within the ester so they do not behave like free fatty acids that might clog pores. Real-world reports of breakouts tied specifically to this ingredient are scarce.
Most acne-prone users should find it acceptable, especially in rinse-off or lightweight leave-on formulas.
Formulas rich in additional heavy oils or butters could still pose a clogging risk so consider the product as a whole rather than judging by a single ingredient.
Summary
Polyglyceryl-6 Palmitate/Succinate works mainly as a mild cleanser and an emulsifier. Its split personality of oil-friendly and water-friendly parts lets it grab onto grime and makeup then lift them away with water while also holding oil and water together so creams stay smooth and stable.
It is not the flashiest ingredient on shelves but formulators value it for its plant origin, gentle profile and biodegradable nature, so it quietly shows up in sulfate-free cleansers, micellar waters and light lotions aimed at sensitive skin.
Overall safety is high with low irritation and low comedogenic potential reported. As with any new skincare product, patch test on a small area first to be sure your skin agrees before applying more broadly.