The Index · W/O emulsifier
Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate
Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate
Polyglyceryl emulsifier used in water-in-oil balms and tinted formulas.
FunctionalFunctional ingredient, not graded for skin benefits
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Polyglyceryl emulsifier used in water-in-oil balms and tinted formulas.
What it does
Stabilizes silicone/hydrocarbon balms such as Cicaplast-type vehicles.
The evidence
Functional ingredient (not graded for skin benefits): Functional W/O emulsifier; CIR polyglyceryl esters context. Credible chemical identity and cosmetic-use context come from CIR/SCCS/manufacturer INCI definitions and databases such as SpecialChem/PubChem[1].
How to use it
Expect this as a supporting INCI line item unless labeled as a featured active.
What it does in the formula
Functional ingredient — not graded for skin benefits
Polyglyceryl emulsifier used in water-in-oil balms and tinted formulas.[1]
Safety & limits
Source and region, always
all — Used in cosmetics within conventional leave-on/rinse-off levels; see cited safety literature.[1] CA US EU UK
Sources · 2
Numbered as cited in the text
- [1]SpecialChem. SpecialChem INCI profile: Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate. SpecialChem (2024)other
- [2]Cosmetic Ingredient Review. Polyglyceryl Esters. CIR (2016)regulator
Revision history
18 Sept 2026Drafted by botTheSkindex Desk