Polyglyceryl-20 Octadecabehenate/Laurate
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Polyglyceryl-20 Ester, Emulsifier
Synthetic
Emollient
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Skin Conditioner
Not Clean
Polyglyceryl-20 Octadecabehenate/Laurate is the octadecaester of Polyglycerin-20 and a mixture of behenic and lauric acids.
Functions
Skin Conditioning
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
Emollient
Fills in the tiny cracks between skin cells to make everything feel smooth and soft. The "silky finish" ingredient.
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Locks In Moisture
Traditional Use
A modern synthetic emulsifier developed for cosmetic use in the late 20th century. Combines polyglycerin with long-chain fatty acids to function as a stabilizer and texture enhancer in creams and lotions.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed1 review →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR