Ingredients

Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate

What polyglyceryl-10 myristate does as an emulsifier and surfactant, why it helps oil and water mix, and what its name says about its source.

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Quick facts

INCI name
Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate
Origin
Plant-derived or Synthetic
Chemical class
Polyglycerol fatty-acid ester
What it does in a formula
emulsifying, surfactant, cleansing
Why it is in the formula
Helps blend oily and watery ingredients and can support cleansing or texture.

What it is

Formulated to help oil and water phases blend into stable emulsions, polyglyceryl-10 myristate is a nonionic ester made from polyglycerin and myristic acid. While its components are frequently derived from plant fats, they undergo industrial chemical processing into the final emulsifier. The INCI declaration does not identify the exact agricultural feedstock or supplier method.

You may find it in cleansers, lotions, or other cosmetics as an emulsifier or surfactant. In a rinse-off formula it can help with cleansing; in a leave-on formula it may help stabilize a blend. It is a supporting ingredient, not an active you need to add separately.

What it does

  • Emulsifies. It helps oily and water-based parts form a uniform mixture.
  • Supports cleansing. Its surfactant behavior can help loosen and disperse oils in rinse-off formulas.
  • Contributes to texture. It can help a formulator adjust the way a product spreads or rinses.

Who it suits

Polyglyceryl-10 myristate is a helper ingredient rather than a reason to choose a product for a skin benefit. Its effect depends on whether it is in a rinse-off cleanser or a leave-on cream and on the other ingredients in that formula. Choose by the product’s feel and use, not by the assumption that a plant-associated starting material makes it universally gentle.

If you have sensitive skin, patch-test a new formula and stop if it causes persistent irritation. A surfactant can feel different depending on concentration and the cleansing blend. The ingredient list cannot tell you the exact source or amount, so ask the manufacturer if sourcing matters to you. For recurring irritation, seek guidance from a dermatologist.

What to pair it with, and what not to

It does not require a special ingredient partner. In a moisturizer it may sit with humectants such as glycerin, while a cleanser containing it can simply be followed by your usual moisturizer. The product’s formula already does the blending work.

Skin Realist check: Oil and water can get along when a formulator puts in the work. You do not need to referee.

Quick picks with Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate

Picked from label facts only. We haven't tested these products.

All 5 products with Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate

Eye Creams & Under-Eye Patches (2)

Sheet, Hydrogel & Clay Masks (1)

Hydrating Toners, Essence Waters & Face Mists (1)

Premium Overnight Recovery Packs & Sleeping Facials (1)

Common questions

What is polyglyceryl-10 myristate?

It is an ester made from polyglycerin and myristic acid. Cosmetic formulators use it as a surfactant and emulsifier.

What does polyglyceryl-10 myristate do in skincare?

It can help oil and water mix and may be used in cleansing or leave-on formulas to support product texture. Its exact role depends on the formula.

Is polyglyceryl-10 myristate natural?

Its starting materials can be plant-derived, but the final ingredient is made by processing and combining them. The label does not establish a particular source or certification.

Is it a cleanser?

It can contribute surfactant activity, but it is not necessarily the main cleansing agent in a product. The full blend determines how the finished formula cleans.

Sources