Polyglyceryl-3 Caprate

Polyglyceryl-3 Caprate 1
photograph
AKA: Polyglyceryl-3 Ester, Emulsifier
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Clean
OriginDerived from polyglycerin and capric acid, which are sourced from plant oils like coconut and palm. Synthesized through esterification reaction between polyglycerol and capric acid to form the emulsifying compound.
1,2,3-Propanetriol, homopolymer, decanoates (1:1) (3 mol glycerol average molar ratio)
CAS #
133654-02-1
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
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
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.
EWG
1
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Skin Irritant
1 study / 1 not irritating (CIR 717)
Not a Sensitizer
1 study / 1 not sensitizing (CIR 717)
Not an Eye Irritant
1 study / 1 not irritating (CIR 717)
Concentration Guide
CIR's newest survey reports no concentration of use.
CIR · report published 2023
Regulatory Status
USA✔ permitted
EU⚠ restricted
JAPAN⚠ restricted
CANADA⚠ restricted
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR