Glycereth-31
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: 21156-05-8, BLAUNON GL-3, PEG-3 GLYCERYL ETHER, ETHANOL, GLYCERETH-3 [INCI]
Synthetic
Humectant
Cleanser
Skin Conditioner
Clean
Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl),.alpha.,.alpha.',.alpha.-1,2,3-propanetryiltris[.omega.-hydroxy- (31 mol EO average molar ratio)
Formula
C9H20O6
Mol. Weight
224.25
CAS #
31694-55-0
Form
Powder
Functions
Humectant
A moisture magnet. Pulls water from the air and deeper skin layers up to the surface to keep skin plump and hydrated.
Skin Conditioning
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Viscosity Controlling
Locks In Moisture
Traditional Use
A synthetic emulsifier created by ethoxylating glycerin, developed in the 20th century for cosmetic and personal care products. Designed to improve product stability and texture.
EWG
1
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Agencies
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
Dryness
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewednone on file
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed3 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR