Polyglyceryl-6 Caprylate

Polyglyceryl-6 caprylate is a non-ionic surfactant/solubilizer and antimicrobial co-emulsifier typically used at low levels (~0.1–3%) in leave-on and rinse-off products. Patch testing and real-world use suggest it is generally well tolerated, but as a surface-active medium-chain fatty acid ester it can occasionally sting or exacerbate barrier-compromised skin (e.g., eczema) when combined with other surfactants or preservatives. For sensitive-skin safety, I rate it as gentle but not inert due to its potential to disrupt the stratum corneum in highly reactive individuals. Safety Notes: Polyglyceryl-6 Caprylate is most commonly used as a mild nonionic solubilizer/co-emulsifier and antimicrobial-boosting surfactant, where it appears at very low levels (~0.05–0.5%) in leave-on serums/creams and micellar-type or preservative-boosted systems. In rinse-off cleansers and makeup removers it is frequently used around 0.5–3% for solubilization and mild cleansing. High-strength consumer-available cleansing oils, surfactant concentrates, and minimalist emulsifier systems can reach about 5–10% to build the primary solubilizing/emulsifying structure; levels above this are uncommon in finished OTC skincare due to sensorial/irritation risk and cost.