In our reference data, Polyglyceryl 4 can feed Malassezia (fungal acne).
Polyglyceryl-4 (typically as polyglyceryl-4 esters such as polyglyceryl-4 oleate or laurate) is a polyglycerol-based, plant-derived emulsifier and mild surfactant used to blend oil and water phases and stabilize emulsions. It is valued for its gentle, skin-compatible profile and is commonly found in cleansers, creams, and other cosmetic bases.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mild skin irritation | Rare | Occasional transient redness or stinging, generally in sensitive skin or at higher concentrations. |
| Allergic contact dermatitis | Very rare | Sensitization is uncommon; polyglyceryl esters are considered low-allergenic. |
| Eye irritation | Uncommon | Possible mild irritation if surfactant-containing formulations contact the eyes during cleansing. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.
Peer-reviewed papers on this ingredient, via PubMed.