Ingredient dictionary

Polyglyceryl-2 Dipolyhydroxystearate

A water-in-oil emulsifier that keeps water and oil blended into a smooth, stable mix in creams and sunscreens. It is on the label of 3 products in our library. Checked against our library November 6, 2026.

What Polyglyceryl-2 Dipolyhydroxystearate does

Helps water and oil stay blended
Helps keep sunscreen filters evenly spread
Gives creams a smooth, stable texture

Polyglyceryl-2 Dipolyhydroxystearate is made by linking glycerin units and attaching hydroxystearic acid, a fatty acid related to castor oil. The finished molecule has one side that attracts water and another side that likes oil, so it can bridge the two.

Formulators use it mainly as a water-in-oil emulsifier. That means tiny water droplets sit evenly inside an oil-based base, which helps creams hold together. It is common in sunscreens, where it can help keep mineral filters spread evenly and the formula stable. On skin it usually feels light and smooth rather than heavy.

Good for

Suits anyone looking for a light, even-feeling sunscreen or cream that stays evenly blended over time.

Frequently asked questions

Is Polyglyceryl-2 Dipolyhydroxystearate safe for skin?

It is generally well tolerated and is commonly used in skincare and sunscreens. Like any ingredient, a small number of people may react, so patch testing a new product on a small area first is a sensible habit.

Why is it in my sunscreen?

Sunscreens often contain oil and water phases along with mineral filters. This emulsifier helps those phases stay blended and the filters stay spread out, so the product applies smoothly and feels pleasant to use.