Polyglyceryl-3 Pentaolivate
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Polyglyceryl-3 Ester, Emulsifier
Synthetic
Emollient
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Skin Conditioner
Plant Oil
Not Clean
Polyglyceryl-3 Pentaolivate is the pentaester of Polyglycerin-3 and Olive Acid
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 plant-derived synthetic emulsifier combining polyglycerin with olive-derived fatty acids. Developed as part of the trend toward incorporating botanical ingredients into modern cosmetic chemistry.
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