Polyglycerol-10-Laurate
Polyglycerol-10-Laurate is a non-ionic, biodegradable surfactant and emulsifier derived from natural lauric acid and polyglycerol (with ten glycerol units). It is known for its excellent emulsifying, dispersing, and solubilizing properties, especially in oil-in-water systems. Commonly used in cosmetics, food, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products, it is valued for being mild, non-toxic, and suitable for sensitive applications, including baby care and oral care.
Primary Uses
Cosmetic & Personal Care Products
Used as a primary emulsifier in creams, lotions, serums, and sunscreens.
Ideal for oil-in-water emulsions, providing smooth texture and stability.
Common in baby care, sensitive skin, and natural formulations due to its mildness.
Enhances spreadability and moisture retention in skincare products.
Food Industry
Functions as a food-grade emulsifier in sauces, dressings, and non-dairy creamers.
Used in low-fat and reduced-calorie foods to maintain texture and mouthfeel.
Helps stabilize flavors and colorants in beverages and emulsified concentrates.
Approved for use in foods as an emulsifier and dispersing agent in some jurisdictions.
Pharmaceuticals
Acts as a solubilizer and emulsifier for active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs).
Used in oral suspensions, creams, topical gels, and vaginal formulations.
Enhances bioavailability of poorly water-soluble drugs.
Oral Care Products
Included in toothpastes, mouthwashes, and dental gels as a mild surfactant.
Helps disperse oils and active ingredients uniformly.
Secondary Uses
Hair Care Formulations
Used in shampoos, conditioners, and hair masks as a co-emulsifier and moisturizer.
Reduces irritation from stronger surfactants and improves scalp comfort.
Makeup & Color Cosmetics
Employed in foundations, BB creams, and emulsified makeup for stability and texture enhancement.
Pet Care Products
Safe for use in pet grooming products and medicated creams due to its non-toxic nature.
Natural & Organic Product Lines
Preferred in clean-label, green-certified, and eco-conscious product formulations.
Nutraceutical Emulsions
Stabilizes oil-based nutraceuticals in water-based formulations (e.g., Omega-3 drinks).
Basic Identification Attributes
Chemical Name (IUPAC): Polyglyceryl-10 laurate
Common/Trade Name: Polyglycerol-10-Laurate
CAS Number: 34406-66-1
HS Code: 3402.13.00 (Non-ionic organic surfactants)
Synonyms: Polyglyceryl-10 mono/dilaurate; PG-10 Laurate; Non-ionic emulsifier
Physical & Chemical Properties
Physical State: Viscous liquid or soft solid (depending on ambient temperature)
Color & Odor: Pale yellow to colorless; mild or neutral odor
Solubility: Soluble in water, alcohols, and glycols
HLB Value: ~12–14 (ideal for O/W emulsions)
Acid Value: ≤ 10 mg KOH/g
Saponification Value: 140–180 mg KOH/g
pH (1% solution): 5.5 – 7.5
Safety & Hazard Attributes
GHS Classification: Not classified as hazardous
Toxicity: Low; safe for topical, oral, and food use (within regulatory limits)
Allergen Status: Non-allergenic; derived from natural vegetable oils
Irritation Potential: Very low (skin and eye irritation tests negative at standard use levels)
Storage & Handling Attributes
Storage Conditions: Store in a cool (15–25°C), dry place away from direct sunlight
Container Type: Food- or pharma-grade HDPE drums, IBCs, or plastic containers
Shelf Life: Up to 2 years if stored properly
Handling Precautions: Avoid moisture contamination; use clean, dry tools for handling
Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
Complies with:
EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009
U.S. FDA (food and cosmetic additive use – where applicable)
ECOCERT/COSMOS approved for use in natural and organic cosmetics
REACH-registered (EU chemical compliance)
Environmental & Health Impact
Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable
Ecotoxicity: Low environmental risk; suitable for eco-friendly formulations
Bioaccumulation: Not expected
Allergenic Potential: None known
Safety Handling Precautions
PPE Required: Gloves and safety goggles for bulk handling
Handling Guidelines:
Use in well-ventilated areas
Avoid contact with eyes in concentrated form
Storage Measures: Keep sealed to prevent moisture absorption and degradation
First Aid Measures
Inhalation: Unlikely due to low volatility; if irritation occurs, move to fresh air
Skin Contact: Rinse with water; not known to cause irritation
Eye Contact: Rinse cautiously with clean water; seek medical advice if discomfort persists
Ingestion: Generally regarded as safe in small amounts; seek medical help for large ingestion
Firefighting Measures
Fire Hazards: Non-flammable under normal conditions
Flash Point: >200°C (closed cup)
Extinguishing Media: Water spray, COâ‚‚, dry powder, or foam
Special Precautions: Use standard firefighting PPE
Hazardous Combustion Products: May emit carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide in a fire