Humectant

Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate

One of the very mild emulsifiers in premium cosmetics — polyglyceryl-3 methylglucose distearate is derived from glucose and stearic acid. It is often used in products for sensitive and atopic skin due to its good tolerance.

emulsifiersensitive skinsugar emulsifieratopic skin
✓ Safe
Comedogenic Rating
0/5
Irritation Potential
0/5

What is it?

Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate is an ester of polyglycerin (3 units), methylglucose, and stearic acid. In INCI: Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate. It is derived from plant raw materials (sugar + coconut/palm oil). HLB ~8–10, suitable for w/o and o/w emulsions. Known under the trade name Tego® Care PBS 6.

A primary or auxiliary emulsifier in creams for children, products for atopic skin, and premium sensitive formulas. It forms stable emulsions with a silky texture and minimal risk of allergic reactions.

Key Benefits

Low irritant potential
Polyglyceryl-3 methylglucose distearate is well-suited for sensitive and baby care formulas due to the mild profile of the emulsifier. However, the tolerance of the finished product also depends on preservatives, fragrances, pH, and actives in the composition.
Silky, rich texture without greasiness
Provides creams with a characteristic velvety texture with a second skin effect — not greasy, but not dry either. An optimal consistency for face cream without a heavy silicone feel.
Support for barrier function
The sugar fraction of the molecule interacts with the lipids of the stratum corneum — enhancing barrier function and reducing TEWL in products for dry and damaged skin.

Suitable for

sensitive skinatopic skinbaby skindry skin

Main Actions

✓ emulsification✓ texture improvement✓ barrier support✓ low risk of irritation
Mildness defines the entire formula

Even a very mild emulsifier does not guarantee that the product will be suitable for atopic or reactive skin. For such formulas, it is important to have minimal fragrances, sufficient lipid phase, gentle preservation, and the absence of overly active acids or retinoids.

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