Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Isostearic Acid Polyglyceryl Ester, Emollient
Plant-Derived
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Clean
OriginDerived from isostearic acid (a saturated fatty acid) and glycerin through esterification synthesis. Produced by chemically bonding glycerin molecules to isostearic acid under controlled conditions.
1,2,3-Propanetriol, homopolymer, isooctadecanoates (1:1) (4 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
Antioxidant Protection
Reduces Inflammation
Locks In Moisture
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 Sensitizer
1 study / 1 not sensitizing (CIR 717)
Concentration Guide
Leave-on0.067–24.1%
Rinse-off0.16–1.7%
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · report published 2023
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR
murphy