Polyglyceryl-2 Tetraisostearate

Polyglyceryl-2 tetraisostearate is a non-ionic emulsifier/solubilizer and emollient typically used at low single-digit percentages in makeup, sunscreens, and balms; it is not an exfoliating active and has no intrinsic pH-dependent reactivity. Clinical experience and patch-test data for polyglyceryl esters show low rates of irritation and sensitization, though any surfactant-like emulsifier can occasionally sting or exacerbate dermatitis on severely compromised barriers. Given its generally excellent tolerability but non-zero risk in highly reactive eczema populations, a very gentle (0.2) score is the safest evidence-aligned assessment. Safety Notes: Polyglyceryl-2 tetraisostearate is most often used as a W/O emulsifier and pigment/UV-filter dispersant in color cosmetics and anhydrous balm/oil systems; in mainstream leave-on skincare and makeup it commonly appears around ~0.1–5% for emulsion stabilization or improved spread/pigment wetting. At the low end (~0.1–0.3%) it shows up as a secondary stabilizer/dispersant in lotions, sunscreens, and makeup, while higher levels (10–20%) are observed in consumer-available anhydrous cleansing balms, makeup removers, long-wear foundations/lip products, and high-pigment sticks where it functions as a primary structuring/wetting agent. No specific FDA/EU maximum is set for this ingredient; practical upper limits are driven by texture, viscosity, and compatibility with the oil phase rather than regulation.