Polyglyceryl-3 Stearate SE

AKA: Polyglyceryl-3 Stearate Self-Emulsifying, Emulsifier

Plant-Derived

Cleanser

Emulsifier

Not Clean

OriginDerived from glycerin and stearic acid, typically sourced from plant oils like coconut or palm. Synthesized through esterification of glycerin with stearic acid, then neutralized with alkali.

1,2,3-Propanetriol, homopolymer, reaction products with octadecanoic acid (1:1), neutralized (3 mol glycerol average molar ratio)

CAS #

-

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-reviewednone on file

⚖️Regulatory1 listing →

🛡️Safety-assessed1 review →

Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.

EWG

CIR

Safe as used

Pregnancy

Yes

Concentration Guide

CIR lists it as not reported to be in use.

CIR · report published 2023

Regulatory Status

USA✔ permitted

EU⚠ restricted

JAPAN⚠ restricted

CANADA⚠ restricted

Regulatory Agencies

EWG CIR FDA EU COSING Health Canada

Verified Jun 2026

Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR