Polyglyceryl-6 Ricinoleate

Good

Emollient

Polyglyceryl-6 Ricinoleate at a glance

  • Ester of polyglyceryl-6 and ricinoleic acid
  • Serves as an emollient and surfactant
  • Also an emulsifier
  • Ruled safe as used in cosmetics

Polyglyceryl-6 Ricinoleate description

Polyglyceryl-6 ricinoleate is an ester of polyglyceryl-6 and ricinoleic acid. Polyglyceryl-6 is a polymerized form of glycerin, while ricinoleic acid is a type of fatty acid that makes up the majority of the fatty acid content found in castor oil. In cosmetics, polyglyceryl-6 serves several functions, including acting as an emollient, surfactant, emulsifier, and skin conditioning ingredient. It also helps to solubilize oils, creating more uniform product textures, and keeping ingredients from separating. The independent Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel has ruled polyglyceryl-6 ricinoleate safe in its current usage in cosmetics. The use level is typically between 1–5%, depending on the desired role in the formula.

Polyglyceryl-6 Ricinoleate references

  • PubChem, Website, Accessed October 2025
  • CoSmile Europe, Website, Accessed October 2025
  • SpecialChem, Website, Accessed October 2025
  • International Journal of Toxicology, August 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.