Polyglyceryl-2 Stearate Good Emulsifier Hydration Polyglyceryl-2 Stearate at a glance Blend of stearic acid and glycerin derivative Primarily used as an emulsifier Has emollient properties for skin May be synthetic or animal-derived Polyglyceryl-2 Stearate description Polyglyceryl-2 stearate is the ester of humectant diglycerin and the fatty acid stearic acid. It is used in cosmetics for its emulsifying, surfactant, and emollient properties. The primary use of polyglyceryl-2 stearate in cosmetics is emulsifying. In this role, it negates the need to use greater amounts of heavier-feeling emulsifiers while also improving sensory aesthetics of the product. This ingredient may be synthetic (the type Paula’s Choice uses) or animal derived. Use levels of polyglyceryl-2 stearate in cosmetics range from 1–5%, depending on whether it’s the primary or secondary emulsifying agent, sometimes referred to as a co-emulsifier. Related ingredients: Stearic Acid Diglycerin