Polyglyceryl-4 Tristearate
AKA “Polyglyceryl-4 Tristearate
Surfactant
Ingredient Facts
Polyglyceryl-4 tristearate
Surfactant · Emollient · EWG: 4
Plant-Derived
Emollient
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Skin Conditioner
Plant Oil
Not Clean
triester of tetraglycerol and stearic acid
CAS #
99734-29-9
See origin →
Functions
Emollient
Fills in the tiny cracks between skin cells to make everything feel smooth and soft. The "silky finish" ingredient.
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Locks In Moisture
Traditional Use
A synthetic emulsifier created in the mid-20th century from glycerin and stearic acid. Designed to replace traditional animal-derived emulsifiers with a more stable, consistent alternative for cosmetic manufacturing.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR