What Is Polyglyceryl-6 Ricinoleate?
Polyglyceryl-6 ricinoleate is a plant derived ingredient made by linking about six glycerin molecules together then attaching them to ricinoleic acid, the main fatty acid found in castor oil. The result is a mild, biodegradable substance that loves both water and oil, making it ideal for blending the two. It was introduced in the early 2000s as a greener alternative to traditional synthetic emulsifiers that rely on petroleum based compounds. Manufacturers create it through a two step process: first glycerin is heated to form a short chain polymer called polyglycerin, then this polymer is reacted with ricinoleic acid under controlled temperatures to form the final ester. You will most often see polyglyceryl-6 ricinoleate in creams, lotions, sunscreens, cleansing balms, makeup removers, tinted moisturizers, lip products and baby care formulas where a gentle plant sourced emulsifier is preferred.
Polyglyceryl-6 Ricinoleate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient plays a single but important role in personal care formulas.
As an emulsifying agent it helps oil and water mix into a stable, uniform product. This keeps a lotion from separating in the bottle, improves the texture so it spreads smoothly on skin and ensures each use delivers the same balance of moisturizing oils and hydrating water phase.
Who Can Use Polyglyceryl-6 Ricinoleate
Because it is mild non ionic and free of common allergens, polyglyceryl-6 ricinoleate is generally considered suitable for all skin types including dry, normal, combination, oily and sensitive. It has a low clogging potential so even people prone to breakouts usually tolerate it well. The ingredient is made from vegetable glycerin and castor oil so it contains no animal derived material making it appropriate for vegans and vegetarians.
The molecule stays on the surface of the skin and is not known to enter the bloodstream in meaningful amounts, so products containing it are usually viewed as safe during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should check with a doctor before using any new skincare just to be sure.
Polyglyceryl-6 ricinoleate does not increase the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight so no additional sun precautions are required beyond normal daily SPF use.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical use of polyglyceryl-6 ricinoleate can vary from person to person. The following is a list of potential reactions yet most users will not experience any of them when the ingredient is properly formulated into a product.
- Mild irritation or stinging in very reactive skin, usually short lived and disappearing after rinsing
- Redness or itching if the user is sensitive to castor oil derivatives
- Allergic contact dermatitis which is rare but possible with any cosmetic ingredient
- Temporary clogged pores or breakouts in individuals who are extremely acne prone and react to any fatty acid esters
If you notice any of these issues stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5. Polyglyceryl-6 ricinoleate is a large, water-loving molecule that mostly stays on the skin’s surface rather than sinking into pores, so it is unlikely to trap oil or dead cells. While it is made from a fatty acid, its structure is balanced enough to keep it from feeling greasy or heavy. For most people, including those prone to breakouts, it should not trigger clogged pores. As with any emulsifier the final product formula and how often it is used can influence real-world results.
Summary
Polyglyceryl-6 ricinoleate is mainly an emulsifier, helping water and oil blend into a smooth stable mix that feels pleasant on skin. It does this by anchoring its water-loving glycerin side in the water phase while its oil-friendly ricinoleate side holds onto the oils, locking the two together so they do not separate in the bottle or on your face.
Its plant origin plus gentle performance have made it a popular pick for natural style creams, cleansers and baby care although it is still less common than long-standing synthetic emulsifiers. Formulators like that it is biodegradable and vegan friendly.
Safety data show a very low risk of irritation or allergy. Most users can apply products containing this ingredient without worry, but as with any new skincare it is smart to do a small patch test first just to be sure your skin agrees.