Common Name(s): Polyglyceryl-3 cetyl ether,pg-3 cetyl ether,polyglycerol-3 hexadecanol ether

DESCRIPTION

What It Does: Helps oil and water blend in natural formulas while conditioning skin.

Why It's Used: Ether-linked c16 cetyl alcohol on pg-3; provides mild emulsification with emolliency from cetyl chain.

How It Works: Ether linkage (stable to hydrolysis); c16 cetyl chain provides emolliency; pg-3 provides hydrophilicity; hlb ~7-9.

Typically Found In: Natural cosmetics,o/w emulsions,mild cleansers

TECHNICAL DETAILS

Primary Category: Functional ingredient – emulsifier

Secondary Functions: Skin conditioning,surfactant

Application Areas:

Typical Concentration Range: 0.5%–5%

SOURCING & ETHICS

Vegan Status: Conditional - feedstock declaration required

Halal Status: Unverified - feedstock declaration required (plant, animal and petrochemical routes all exist)

Source Notes: Polyglycerol from vegetable glycerol; cetyl alcohol from coconut/palm; naturally derived. [audit 2026-07-29 rev2: origin-dependent: the same inci exists in plant, animal and petrochemical versions and the name does not discriminate. determination requires shariah-panel sign-off.]

SKIN COMPATIBILITY

Irritancy Rating: 1/5 – very low

Comedogenicity Rating: 1/5 – low

Sensitivity Concerns: Very mild; suitable for sensitive skin.

Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes

SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY

Safety Profile: Excellent safety profile. ewg score: 1.

Works Well With: Natural emulsifiers,fatty alcohols,humectants

Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities

SCIENTIFIC NOTE

Cetyl ether of pg-3 provides emolliency from c16 chain while ether linkage gives superior stability to cetyl ester analogs; waxy character of c16 cetyl contributes structure to formulations.

Last Verified: 2026-03-27

Primary Sources: Cosing database,inci dictionary