Polyglyceryl-6 Octastearate

Good

Emollient

Polyglyceryl-6 Octastearate at a glance

  • Comprised of vegetable fatty acids
  • Skin conditioning ingredient
  • Also a surfactant
  • Ruled safe as used in cosmetics
  • Approved for use as a food additive

Polyglyceryl-6 Octastearate description

Polyglyceryl-6 octastearate is an ester comprised in part of vegetable fatty acids that functions as a skin conditioning ingredient and surfactant in cosmetics. It is also known by the trade name Caprol® ET. The independent Cosmetic Ingredient Review has ruled that polyglyceryl-6 octastearate is safe in cosmetics in its current practices of use. It’s permitted as a safe food additive; you may see it on the ingredient list for salad dressings since it inhibits crystallization of vegetable oils. In cosmetics, the typical use levels of polyglyceryl-6 octastearate is 0.2–5%.

Polyglyceryl-6 Octastearate references

  • CoSmile Europe, Website, Accessed March 2025
  • ULProspector, Website, Accessed March 2025
  • International Journal of Toxicology, June 2023, pages 5S-101S

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.