Polyglyceryl-3 Caprate
AKA: Polyglyceryl-3 Ester, Emulsifier
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Plant Oil
Clean
1,2,3-Propanetriol, homopolymer, decanoates (1:1) (3 mol glycerol average molar ratio)
Effective at 20.06%
CAS #
133654-02-1
Functions
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Emulsifier
Brightens Skin
Mixes Oil & Water
Traditional Use
A synthetic emulsifier created in the 20th century by combining polyglycerin with capric acid. Developed to improve the stability and sensory feel of skincare products.
EWG
1
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Concentration Guide
0.12%
40.0%
0%56%
Reported use
CIR reported use: 0.12-40 | 0.5-5.8
Regulatory Agencies
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed2 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR