Skincare Ingredients

Polyglyceryl-3 Rice Branate

Polyglyceryl-3 Rice Branate is a non-ionic emulsifier/skin-conditioning agent typically used at low percentages (about 1–5%) to stabilize oil-water systems and improve feel, and it is not a pH-dependent or exfoliating active. Available safety/patch-test experience for polyglyceryl esters and rice-bran-derived lipid materials suggests a low rate of irritancy and sensitization compared with many surfactants, though mild reactions can occur in highly reactive or barrier-impaired eczema patients. Given the need to err on patient safety while reflecting its generally good tolerability in leave-on products, it best fits a very gentle score. Safety Notes: Polyglyceryl-3 Rice Branate is primarily used as a natural-origin emulsifier/co-emulsifier and refatting agent; in many commercial leave-on lotions/serums and rinse-off cleansers it appears at low levels (~0.1–1%) as a supporting emulsifier or skin-feel modifier. In richer consumer creams, cleansing balms/oil cleansers, and higher-structure O/W or W/O systems marketed as PEG-free, it is used at higher levels (~3–8%) to provide primary emulsification and viscosity/texture build without prescription or professional-only positioning.

Polyglyceryl-3 Stearate

Polyglyceryl-3 Stearate is a non-ionic emulsifier/surfactant used typically around ~0.5–5% to stabilize oil-water formulas and improve texture. Clinical and patch-test experience generally shows low irritation potential compared with harsher surfactants, but in highly reactive or barrier-impaired patients any emulsifier can contribute to stinging or cumulative irritancy when combined with other actives. Given its broad tolerability yet non-zero risk in compromised skin, I rate it as very gentle rather than inert. Safety Notes: Polyglyceryl-3 Stearate is used as a non-ionic O/W emulsifier and co-emulsifier, with very low levels (~0.1–0.5%) appearing in multi-emulsifier systems in lotions/serums and some rinse-off cleansers where it mainly supports stability and sensorials. Most leave-on creams and sunscreens that list it as a primary emulsifier commonly sit around ~1–4%. High-strength consumer-available products (rich barrier creams, body butters, water-in-oil-like rich textures built with polyglyceryl ester systems, and some solid/an anhydrous balm-to-milk or cleansing balm emulsifying bases) can reach ~6–8% to drive self-emulsification and robust stability without professional-only restrictions.

Polyglyceryl-4 Caprate

Polyglyceryl-4 caprate is a nonionic surfactant/solubilizer (capric acid ester) typically used at low concentrations (~0.5–5%) to help disperse oils and improve cleansing or preservative efficacy. While generally well-tolerated compared with harsher anionic surfactants, caprate-based solubilizers can still disrupt the stratum corneum and sting on compromised skin, with irritation risk increasing in leave-on products or when combined with other surfactants/actives. Given sensitive-skin and eczema populations, I rate it as gentle but not inert, warranting a low yet non-negligible irritancy score. Safety Notes: In commercial leave-on emulsions and micellar/toner-type products, Polyglyceryl-4 Caprate is often used at very low levels (~0.05–0.5%) as a co-emulsifier/solubilizer and mild antimicrobial/skin-feel modifier. Rinse-off cleansers and makeup removers commonly sit around ~0.5–3% for solubilization and foam/cleansing support. The highest consumer-available levels observed are in anhydrous cleansing oils/balms and high-solubilizer systems (including some “preservative-free”/self-preserving style formulas) where it can reach ~5–10%, with practical upper limits driven by clarity/phase behavior, odor/feel, and potential for increased irritation at very high surfactant loads.

Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate

Polyglyceryl-4 isostearate is a non-ionic emulsifier/surfactant typically used at low concentrations (about 0.5–5%) to stabilize water-in-oil systems, and it is generally well tolerated in patch testing and clinical use. While it lacks the protein-reactive or acid/base activity seen in higher-irritancy actives, any surfactant/emulsifier can provoke stinging or barrier-related irritation in a minority of highly reactive or eczematous patients, especially in compromised skin. Given its overall favorable safety profile but non-zero risk in severely sensitive populations, it fits a very gentle score rather than inert. Safety Notes: Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate is used primarily as a W/O emulsifier and pigment wetting/dispersing agent, so it shows up at very low levels (~0.1–0.5%) in conventional leave-on lotions/creams where it functions as a secondary co-emulsifier or stabilizer. In higher-oil, W/O systems (water-in-oil foundations, tinted sunscreens, balm-like creams, and anhydrous makeup cleansing oils/balms), commercial products commonly use it around 2–10%, and high-strength consumer formulations can reach ~15–20% when it is a primary structuring/emulsifying component. Rinse-off products typically sit toward the lower-middle of the range (often ~0.5–5%) unless they are oil-heavy cleansing balms designed to self-emulsify on contact with water.

Polyglyceryl-4 Oleate

Polyglyceryl-4 oleate is a nonionic emulsifier/surfactant typically used at low percentages (about 0.5–5%) to solubilize oils and improve spread, and it is generally considered well-tolerated compared with harsher anionic surfactants. However, as a surfactant/emulsifier it can still contribute to barrier disruption and stinging in compromised or eczematous skin, especially in leave-on formulas or when combined with other cleansing agents. Given the low but real irritation potential in highly reactive populations, it best fits a gentle (not inert) score. Safety Notes: Polyglyceryl-4 Oleate is used as a nonionic emulsifier/solubilizer and W/O co-emulsifier, so it commonly appears at very low levels (~0.05–0.3%) in leave-on serums/oils and micellar-type systems to aid solubilization and sensory. In consumer rinse-off cleansing oils/balms and W/O creams it is frequently used around 1–5% as a primary or co-emulsifier, with high-strength OTC cleansing oils/balms and anhydrous makeup removers reaching ~8–10% to ensure robust self-emulsification on rinse; above this is uncommon due to viscosity, feel, and potential clarity/sensory drawbacks rather than regulatory limits.

Polyglyceryl-6 Behenate

Polyglyceryl-6 Behenate is a non-ionic emulsifier/emollient typically used at low percentages (about 0.5–5%) to stabilize oil/water phases and improve skin feel. Clinical and patch-test experience with polyglyceryl esters shows a low irritation profile and minimal sensitization risk because it is non-fragrant and not a high-reactivity preservative or active. In highly compromised barriers (eczema/post-procedure), any surfactant-like emulsifier can occasionally sting, but overall this ingredient is very gentle at typical use levels. Safety Notes: Polyglyceryl-6 Behenate is a nonionic, PEG-free emulsifier/co-emulsifier and lamellar-structure builder most often used at very low levels (around 0.05–0.3%) as a secondary stabilizer or skin-feel modifier in leave-on emulsions and occasionally in rinse-off cleansers. In consumer-available high-structure barrier creams, rich lotions, and balm-like O/W systems, it is used at much higher levels (typically 2–5%) and can reach ~8% in specialized high-viscosity/lamellar formulations where it functions as a primary structuring emulsifier alongside fatty alcohols/waxes; higher levels are uncommon due to waxy drag and formulation hardness.

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.

Polyglyceryl-6 Dicaprate

Polyglyceryl-6 dicaprate is a non-ionic polyglyceryl ester used primarily as a mild emulsifier/solubilizer and emollient, typically included around ~0.5–5% in leave-on products. Available patch-test and clinical use data for polyglyceryl esters suggest low irritation and low sensitization potential, with reactions being uncommon compared with harsher surfactants or ethoxylated solubilizers. In highly compromised skin (eczema flares), any emulsifier can contribute to stinging or barrier disruption in layered routines, so I rate it very gentle but not completely inert. Safety Notes: Polyglyceryl-6 dicaprate is used commercially as a mild, PEG-free nonionic surfactant/solubilizer and emollient, often appearing at low levels (~0.1–1%) in leave-on lotions/serums and micellar-style formulas to aid solubilization and sensorial slip. In rinse-off cleansers and oil-to-milk cleansing products it is commonly used higher (2–10%) as a primary or co-surfactant, and high-strength consumer cleansing oils/balm-to-milk and self-emulsifying oil systems can reach ~15–20% to ensure rapid emulsification upon rinsing. No specific EU/FDA concentration cap is typical for this ingredient in cosmetics; practical limits are driven by phase behavior, viscosity, and irritation potential at very high surfactant loads in leave-on products.

Polyglyceryl-6 Distearate

Polyglyceryl-6 Distearate is a non-ionic emulsifier/surfactant typically used at low percentages (about 0.5–5%) to stabilize creams and lotions, and it is generally well-tolerated compared with harsher surfactants. Human patch testing and post-market experience suggest a low rate of irritation and sensitization, with occasional reactions possible in highly compromised barrier states (e.g., active eczema) due to surfactant-related disruption. Given its routine use in leave-on products and overall favorable safety profile, I rate it as very gentle but not completely inert. Safety Notes: Polyglyceryl-6 Distearate is used as a non-ionic emulsifier/co-emulsifier in O/W creams, lotions, cleansing creams and balm-to-milk systems; in commercial products it can appear at very low levels (~0.05–0.3%) as a minor co-emulsifier or label-support ingredient in multi-emulsifier systems. Most leave-on emulsions sit around ~0.5–3%, while the highest consumer-available levels (~5–8%) are observed in high-internal-phase creams, rich cold-cream style moisturizers, and some cleansing creams/balm cleansers where extra emulsifier is needed to emulsify higher oil loads; it is not specifically concentration-limited by major regulations beyond general cosmetic safety requirements.

Polyglyceryl-6 Isostearate

Polyglyceryl-6 isostearate is a non-ionic emulsifier/surfactant typically used at low concentrations (about 0.5–5%) to stabilize oil-in-water systems, and it is generally well-tolerated in patch testing compared with harsher anionic surfactants. True irritation is uncommon, but as a surfactant/emulsifier it can contribute to barrier disruption or stinging in highly compromised skin when combined with other irritants, so I score it as very gentle rather than inert for patient safety. Safety Notes: Polyglyceryl-6 Isostearate is most often used as a nonionic emulsifier/co-emulsifier and solubilizing surfactant in leave-on creams/lotions and cleansing oils/makeup removers; at the low end (~0.1–0.5%) it appears as a secondary emulsifier or stabilizer in multi-emulsifier systems. In real-world consumer products, dedicated oil cleansers, cleansing balms, and high-load W/O or water-in-oil-like emulsions commonly push it into the mid-to-high single digits, with observed high-strength OTC formulas using about 10–12% as a primary emulsifier/structurant (higher levels are uncommon due to texture, cost, and potential for over-cleansing/drag).

Polyglyceryl-6 Laurate

Polyglyceryl-6 Laurate is a nonionic surfactant/emulsifier used at low concentrations (typically ~0.5–5%) to solubilize oils and improve cleanser or lotion mildness, and it is generally well tolerated in patch testing compared with harsher anionic surfactants. However, as a laurate-based surfactant it can still disrupt barrier lipids in very compromised skin (eczema, post-procedure) and may sting on inflamed areas, especially when combined with other cleansing agents. For patient safety in severe sensitivities, I score it as gentle but not inert. Safety Notes: Polyglyceryl-6 Laurate is used as a nonionic, PEG-free emulsifier/solubilizer and mild surfactant; in leave-on emulsions/serums it is often present at low levels (~0.05–1%) as a co-emulsifier or solubilizer for oils/fragrance, while rinse-off cleansers and micellar-type systems more commonly use ~0.5–5% for detergency/solubilization. In consumer-available high-strength anhydrous cleansing balms, makeup removers, and self-emulsifying oil cleansers, it is observed at much higher levels (commonly 5–12% and up to ~15%) to ensure rapid rinse-off emulsification and stability; higher levels are constrained mainly by sensory (drag/soaping), potential eye sting, and formula viscosity rather than specific regulatory maximums.

Polyglyceryl-6 Octastearate

Polyglyceryl-6 octastearate is a nonionic emulsifier/emollient typically used at low concentrations (about 0.5–5%) to stabilize oil-in-water systems, and it is generally well tolerated because it is not a reactive active and has no meaningful pH-dependent exfoliating activity. Available safety and patch-test experience for polyglyceryl fatty acid esters suggests low irritation and low sensitization potential, though any surfactant/emulsifier can occasionally sting on severely compromised barriers (e.g., acute eczema flares). Given its overall benign profile but acknowledging rare reactivity in highly sensitive skin, it fits best as very gentle rather than inert. Safety Notes: Polyglyceryl-6 octastearate is used as a non-ionic emulsifier/structurant in O/W systems and cleansing creams, and in commercial leave-on lotions/creams it is often present at low supporting levels (~0.1–1%) as part of an emulsifier blend. In richer barrier creams, balms, and specialty anhydrous-to-emulsion cleansing products marketed to consumers, it can be pushed higher (~3–8%) to build viscosity/lamellar structure and improve stability, typically alongside other polyglyceryl esters or fatty alcohols. Concentrations above this are uncommon in OTC skincare due to heavy sensory drag, waxy buildup, and diminishing formulation flexibility.

Polyglyceryl-6 Oleate

Polyglyceryl-6 oleate is a nonionic emulsifier/surfactant used in leave-on and rinse-off products (commonly ~0.5–5%) to solubilize oils and stabilize emulsions. As a surfactant-class ingredient it can disrupt barrier lipids and cause mild stinging or dryness in highly reactive or eczema-prone skin, though patch-test/clinical use generally shows good tolerability compared with harsher anionic surfactants. Given the low but real irritation potential—especially in compromised skin or when combined with other surfactants/actives—this fits a "gentle" score rather than very gentle/inert. Safety Notes: Polyglyceryl-6 Oleate is used primarily as a nonionic emulsifier/co-emulsifier and mild solubilizer for oils in cleansers, micellar-type products, and O/W emulsions; in commercial formulas it is often present at low levels (~0.1–1%) as a secondary emulsifier or emollient. Higher consumer-available concentrations (about 3–8%) are observed in high-oil-load cleansing oils/balms, makeup removers, and rinse-off cleansing emulsions where it functions as a primary emulsifier and aids self-emulsification on contact with water. It is less commonly driven to very high levels in leave-on creams/lotions due to sensorial tack/drag and emulsifier load considerations, so the upper end is mainly represented by rinse-off and remover formats.

Polyglyceryl-6 Polyricinoleate

Polyglyceryl-6 polyricinoleate is a nonionic emulsifier/surfactant typically used at low levels (about 0.5–5%) in leave-on and rinse-off products, and it is generally well-tolerated with low irritancy in standard patch testing for surfactant-type ingredients. However, as a ricinoleic acid (castor oil–derived) ester, it can still provoke irritation in highly reactive or eczematous skin—especially on compromised barriers or in formulas containing other surfactants—so I score it as gentle rather than very gentle for patient safety. Safety Notes: Polyglyceryl-6 polyricinoleate (PGPR) is a low-HLB W/O emulsifier and pigment wetting/dispersing aid, and in many consumer skincare/makeup emulsions it appears at trace-to-low levels (~0.05–1%) to stabilize W/O systems or improve payoff in color cosmetics/cleansing balms. In anhydrous oil-based products (cleansing oils, makeup removers, balm-to-oil cleansers) and high-pigment foundations/concealers available OTC, it is used at much higher levels (commonly ~2–10%) and can reach ~15–20% in specialty/high-load systems where it is a primary structuring emulsifier for water droplets and/or to wet large pigment loads. No specific global cosmetic concentration limit is typically set for PGPR itself, so the practical maximum is driven by sensorial/viscosity constraints and the stability needs of W/O or anhydrous formulations rather than regulation.

Polyglyceryl-6 Ricinoleate

Polyglyceryl-6 ricinoleate is a nonionic surfactant/emulsifier (often used around ~0.5–5%) derived from castor oil, generally associated with low irritation in cosmetic use and typically considered suitable for sensitive-skin formulations. As a surfactant it can still contribute to barrier disruption or stinging in highly compromised skin (especially in leave-on products or when combined with other surfactants/actives), but clinically it is far less irritating than anionic surfactants or fragrance components. For patient safety in reactive eczema-prone populations, it rates as very gentle but not fully inert. Safety Notes: Polyglyceryl-6 ricinoleate is used as a nonionic emulsifier/solubilizer and pigment wetting/dispersing aid; in many leave-on lotions, creams, and cleansing products it appears at low supporting levels around 0.05–1% to stabilize emulsions or improve sensory/dispersion. In higher-oil, more challenging systems (e.g., anhydrous cleansing oils/balms that emulsify on rinse, makeup removers, bath oils, and some high-load pigment or SPF dispersions), consumer OTC products commonly use it in the ~2–6% range, with some specialized self-emulsifying oil systems reaching about 8% to achieve robust rinsability and stability. No specific FDA/EU concentration cap applies to this emulsifier in cosmetics; practical upper limits are set by viscosity, feel, and formulation compatibility rather than regulation.

Polygonum Bistorta Root Extract

Polygonum bistorta (bistort) root extract is a botanical astringent rich in tannins/polyphenols, typically used at low percentages for soothing/toning or anti-redness claims. While not a high-potency active, tannin-heavy plant extracts can sting and exacerbate dryness in eczema-prone or barrier-impaired skin and have a non-trivial risk of irritant or allergic contact reactions compared with inert bases. Given sensitive-skin and compromised-barrier populations, I rate it as mild irritancy rather than “gentle.” Safety Notes: In commercial skincare, Polygonum Bistorta Root Extract is most often used as a supporting botanical/brightening or soothing extract at very low levels (~0.001–0.1%) in emulsions, toners, and cleansers where it functions as part of an extract blend. Dedicated brightening/anti-spot serums and “high-botanical” formulas can push the extract to ~1–5% (typically depending on the supplier’s extract strength/solvent system), with leave-on products generally using the higher end while rinse-off products skew lower for cost and deposition reasons.

Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract

Polygonum cuspidatum (Japanese knotweed) root extract is primarily used as an antioxidant/soothing botanical source of resveratrol and related polyphenols, typically at low percentages in leave-on products. While generally tolerated, botanical extracts have documented variability in composition and can trigger irritant or allergic contact dermatitis in reactive and eczematous skin, especially when used repeatedly or layered with other actives. Given the non-essential nature of the extract and the real-world sensitization risk in sensitive populations, a mild (0.4) score is the safest clinically aligned assessment. Safety Notes: In mass-market leave-on serums/creams and K-beauty-style antioxidant blends, Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract is commonly used as a minor botanical component around 0.01–0.1%, often alongside other plant extracts and/or as a supporting source of resveratrol. Higher-strength consumer products (primarily leave-on serums and targeted brightening/antioxidant treatments) use the extract at ~1–5% when it is a highlighted active, with the practical upper end driven by odor/color, solubility/clarity, and stability constraints; rinse-off products generally sit toward the low end due to cost and short contact time.

Polygonum Tinctorium Leaf Extract

Polygonum tinctorium (indigo plant) leaf extract is typically used at low concentrations as an antioxidant/soothing botanical, and it is generally well-tolerated in leave-on products. However, like many plant extracts it contains multiple bioactive constituents with variability between batches, and there are documented cases of botanical extracts provoking irritant or allergic contact dermatitis in reactive or eczema-prone patients. Given the non-zero sensitization potential despite common “calming” positioning, I rate it as gentle but not exceptionally gentle. Safety Notes: In commercial skincare, Polygonum Tinctorium (indigo plant) leaf extract is most often used as a low-level soothing/antioxidant botanical, commonly appearing in leave-on serums, creams, and toners at trace-to-low levels (~0.0005–0.1%) typical of supplier-recommended use rates for plant extracts. Higher-strength consumer-available products (especially “Cica/soothing” ampoules, concentrated essence/serum formats, and some botanical gels) have been observed formulating it around ~0.5–3% when the extract is a featured hero ingredient; above this is uncommon due to cost, color/odor, stability, and sensory constraints. Rinse-off cleansers typically sit toward the low end because of short contact time, while leave-on products span the full range.

Polyhydroxystearic Acid

Polyhydroxystearic Acid is a high–molecular weight fatty acid polymer used mainly as a dispersant/thickener in makeup and mineral sunscreen, typically at low percentages. Available safety assessments and its non-volatile, non-acidic, non-surfactant nature suggest low irritation potential in routine use, with reactions being uncommon and more likely related to individual intolerance in very compromised skin. Given the sensitive-skin context and limited large-scale irritation data compared with more ubiquitous emollients, I score it as very gentle rather than inert. Safety Notes: Polyhydroxystearic Acid is used primarily as a dispersant/wetting agent and stabilizer in anhydrous or low-water systems (especially mineral sunscreens, color cosmetics, and silicone/oil-based serums), where it can appear at very low levels (~0.05–0.3%) simply to aid pigment dispersion and improve feel. In higher-load zinc oxide/titanium dioxide sunscreens, foundations, and sticks, commercial OTC formulas commonly use ~1–5% and can reach about 8–10% in high-pigment/high-mineral, consumer-available products to maintain uniform dispersion and prevent settling (higher levels are uncommon due to viscosity/drag and sensorial limits). It is generally a leave-on ingredient; rinse-off products tend to sit at the low end when used at all.

Polyisobutene

Polyisobutene is an inert, non-volatile synthetic emollient/film-former used to improve slip and occlusivity (commonly a few percent up to higher levels in lip and balm-type products). Human irritation and patch-test data generally show very low irritancy and sensitization potential, with reactions being uncommon and typically related to product occlusion or co-ingredients rather than the polymer itself. For highly reactive or barrier-compromised patients, I still score it as exceptionally gentle rather than perfectly inert because heavy, occlusive formulations can occasionally sting on fissured skin even when the ingredient is not intrinsically irritating. Safety Notes: Polyisobutene is used at very low levels (~0.1–1%) in leave-on emulsions (creams/lotions, sunscreens, primers) as a slip/occlusivity and texture aid, and at a few percent in color cosmetics and cleansing balms to improve spread and water resistance. At the high end, it can be a primary base in anhydrous consumer products—especially lip glosses, lip oils/balms, and some long-wear makeup—where polyisobutene (often HPIB) commonly reaches ~30–70% to provide gloss, tack, and film-forming. No specific EU/FDA concentration cap is typically applied; practical upper limits are driven by viscosity/feel and product format (leave-on anhydrous vs emulsion/rinse-off).

Polymethylsilsesquioxane

Polymethylsilsesquioxane is an inert, film-forming silicone powder used in makeup and skincare (often a few percent to ~10%+) to improve slip, blur, and wear; it is not chemically reactive and is generally non-sensitizing in patch testing. True irritation is uncommon, but in severely compromised skin the occlusive/film-forming effect and mechanical friction from powdery textures can occasionally aggravate dryness or stinging, so it is best classified as exceptionally gentle rather than perfectly inert. Safety Notes: Polymethylsilsesquioxane is used as a silicone resin microsphere/texturizer for slip, soft-focus, and oil-absorption; in many emulsions, sunscreens, and primers it appears at low levels (~0.05–1%) for feel and finish. In high-performance makeup/primer and blurring powder-cream hybrids available OTC, it can be pushed into the mid-to-high single digits and into double digits (typically ~5–15%) and, in extreme silicone-resin heavy anhydrous/primer systems, up to about 20–25% while maintaining spreadability. Rinse-off products generally sit toward the low end because the sensorial benefit is less persistent, whereas leave-on complexion products and sunscreens most commonly reach the upper end.

Polyquaternium-10

Polyquaternium-10 is a cationic cellulose-derived conditioning polymer used mainly in hair and some skin products (typically ~0.1–1%) to reduce static and improve slip/film-forming. Clinical experience and patch-test data generally show low irritation potential for this high–molecular weight polymer, but cationic polymers can occasionally provoke stinging or mild irritant reactions on compromised barriers (e.g., eczema, post-procedure) when left on the skin. Given its overall good tolerability yet non-zero risk in highly reactive patients, it fits best as very gentle rather than inert. Safety Notes: In commercial haircare and skincare, Polyquaternium-10 is most often used at very low levels (~0.01–0.10%) in shampoos/cleansers and light lotions to provide wet-comb improvement, anti-static effects, and a soft after-feel without buildup. Higher levels are seen in consumer-available high-deposition conditioners, masks, leave-in detanglers, and styling creams where slip and substantivity are prioritized; these can reach ~0.5% and, more rarely, about 1.0% in thickened, strongly conditioning leave-on formats. There is no specific EU/FDA maximum for this polymer in cosmetics, so practical upper use is mainly limited by viscosity, clarity/compatibility with anionics, potential tack/buildup, and sensory performance (rinse-off typically lower than leave-on).

Polyquaternium-51

Polyquaternium-51 is a film-forming cationic polymer used mainly for conditioning and barrier-support/“moisture retention,” typically at low levels (about ≤1%) in leave-on and rinse-off products. Available human patch/usage data and broad cosmetic experience suggest a low rate of irritation or sensitization compared with many preservatives, fragrances, or active ingredients; reactions are possible but uncommon even in sensitive populations. Because it is a substantive (positively charged) polymer that can occasionally contribute to stinging on severely compromised skin, I score it as very gentle rather than exceptionally gentle. Safety Notes: In commercial skincare and haircare, Polyquaternium-51 is commonly used at very low levels (~0.01–0.1%) as a conditioning/film-forming humectant in toners, lotions, serums, shampoos, and body washes, especially in leave-on moisturizers and barrier-care products. Higher-end leave-on “skin barrier/second-skin” creams and Japanese-origin formulas sometimes push the polymer to ~1–3% active to maximize substantivity and moisturization; the highest consumer-available concentrations observed are around ~5% in specialized, high-slip conditioning creams/gel-creams (above this, aesthetics and tack/film build become limiting). No specific EU/FDA maximum is typically specified for this polymer in cosmetics; practical sensory/stability constraints usually set the upper bound, with rinse-off products generally using lower levels than leave-on.

Polyquaternium-7

Polyquaternium-7 is a cationic conditioning polymer used mainly in shampoos, cleansers, and leave-on conditioners (typically ~0.1–2%) to reduce friction and improve feel. It is generally well-tolerated in patch testing and clinical use, with irritation uncommon at typical concentrations, though very reactive or eczema-prone patients can experience stinging/itch from cationic film-formers—especially in leave-on products or when applied to compromised skin. Given broad tolerability but nonzero risk in highly sensitized populations, it fits a very gentle (not inert) score. Safety Notes: Polyquaternium-7 is most commonly supplied and dosed as an aqueous solution (often ~8–10% active), and in consumer products it appears at very low levels (~0.05–0.3% active) in facial cleansers, body washes, and micellar-type rinse-off systems mainly for slip and reduced irritation. Typical hair shampoos/2-in-1s and conditioning washes run ~0.2–1.5% active, while high-deposit consumer conditioners, co-washes, curl creams, and leave-on detangling/anti-frizz products can reach ~3–5% active for strong conditioning and film formation. This range reflects observed OTC market usage across rinse-off and leave-on formats; higher levels are constrained by tack/film feel, build-up, and viscosity/compatibility with surfactants and anionics rather than specific EU/FDA concentration caps.

Polysilicone-11

MVP Approved - Polysilicone-11 is a silicone-based film former used in cosmetics to impart a smooth, matte finish with low irritation potential.

Polysilicone-15

Polysilicone-15 is a film-forming silicone UV filter/photostabilizer commonly used in leave-on sunscreens and hair products at low percentages, and it is generally considered low in irritancy due to minimal skin penetration. Clinical and post-market data suggest irritation and allergy are uncommon but possible in highly reactive or eczema-prone patients, especially in compromised skin with multiple concurrent actives. Given its low but non-zero potential for stinging or contact dermatitis in sensitized individuals, it fits best as very gentle rather than inert. Safety Notes: Polysilicone-15 is a silicone-based UVB absorber/photostabilizer most commonly seen in leave-on suncare and daily moisturizers with SPF, where it is often used at low levels (~0.1–2%) primarily to boost UVB protection and improve film feel. In high-protection consumer sunscreens and SPF cosmetics it can be formulated at substantially higher levels (commonly ~3–7%), with the upper end around ~10% observed in some high-SPF, silicone-heavy systems available OTC; rinse-off products, when it appears, are typically at the low end due to limited benefit and cost.

Polysorbate 20

MVP Approved - Polysorbate 20 is a synthetic nonionic surfactant and emulsifier widely used in cosmetic formulations to help solubilize oils and stabilize products. It is generally well-tolerated with a very low potential for irritation when used at recommended concentrations.

Polysorbate 80

Polysorbate 80 is a nonionic surfactant/solubilizer typically used around ~0.1–5% in leave-on products (and sometimes higher in rinse-off or pharmaceutical preparations). While generally well-tolerated, surfactants can disrupt the skin barrier and clinical patch testing documents occasional irritant reactions—especially in compromised skin (eczema, post-procedure) and with higher concentrations or occlusive use. Given its role in increasing penetration/solubilizing other ingredients and the real-world risk in reactive patients, I rate it as mild rather than truly gentle. Safety Notes: In commercial skincare, Polysorbate 80 is commonly used at very low levels (~0.05–0.5%) as a solubilizer for fragrance/essential oils in toners, micellar waters, and sprays, and around 0.5–5% as an emulsifier/dispersant in creams, cleansers, and masks. The highest consumer-available levels are seen in specialty oil cleansers, makeup removers, bath/shower oils, and some anhydrous-to-milky rinse-off formats where it can function as a primary self-emulsifier, reaching ~10–20% without being prescription or professional-only. No specific EU/FDA cosmetic maximum applies; practical limits are driven by irritation potential, sensory tackiness, and emulsion/solubilization requirements, with rinse-off products more likely to use the upper end than leave-on products.

Polyvinyl Alcohol

Polyvinyl alcohol is a film-forming binder commonly used in peel-off masks, hair products, and some cosmetics; it is generally low-reactivity at typical use levels but can feel drying and tight on skin. Patch-test data and clinical experience suggest irritation is uncommon, yet mechanical film formation/removal and reduced water loss buffering can provoke stinging or erythema in eczema-prone or compromised skin. Given real-world use (often in formulas that dry down and are removed) and sensitive-skin risk, it fits a gentle-but-not-inert profile. Safety Notes: In commercial skincare, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is most often used as a film former/binder at very low levels (~0.05–1%) in lotions/serums and as a secondary film former in some peel-off formats. The highest consumer-available levels are found in peel-off masks, temporary “tightening”/lifting gels, and blackhead-removal mask products where PVA commonly runs ~5–15% and can reach about 20% to achieve a strong, strippable film; rinse-off cleansers typically sit lower than peel-off leave-on/peel-off products due to viscosity and rinseability constraints.

Polyvinylalcohol Crosspolymer

Polyvinylalcohol Crosspolymer is an inert, high–molecular weight film-forming/texture agent typically used at low percentages to stabilize gels or create a smooth, blurring finish. It is not a biologically active ingredient and is generally negative in standard irritation testing, with reactions most often related to mechanical film tightness or contamination rather than true chemical irritancy. For severely compromised barriers, that occlusive/film effect can occasionally feel stinging or tight, so it is scored as exceptionally gentle rather than completely inert. Safety Notes: Polyvinylalcohol Crosspolymer is most commonly used as a film-forming/structuring polymer in peel-off masks, primers, and long-wear/mattifying leave-on products, where it can be present at very low levels (~0.05–0.3%) as a secondary texture aid. In dedicated peel-off mask and film-forming products available OTC, it can be a primary structurant and rise into the several-percent range, with the strongest consumer products observed around ~8–10% to build a cohesive peelable film. Rinse-off formats (cleansers) typically sit at the low end due to limited need for durable films, while leave-on/peel-off products drive the high end.