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Cosmetics Ingredients
The material selection platform
Cosmetics Ingredients

OLEIC ACID

CAS Number 112-80-1
Chem/IUPAC Name: 9-Octadecenoic acid (9Z)-
EINECS/ELINCS No: 204-007-1
COSING REF No: 77906
OLEIC ACID
Oleic Acid is a naturally occurring fatty acid widely used in cosmetics and skincare products. It is derived from various vegetable oils, such as olive oil and sunflower oil. Oleic Acid appears as a pale yellow to amber-colored liquid with a mild odor. In cosmetics, it serves as an emollient and moisturizing ingredient due to its ability to enhance skin hydration and improve skin barrier function. It is often found in creams, lotions, serums, and lip balms, providing a smooth and soft texture while helping to maintain the skin's moisture balance. The chemical formula of Oleic Acid is C18H34O2.

What is OLEIC ACID used for?

Oleic Acid is quite a popular and effective ingredient in the world of cosmetics. It serves many different functions and enriches formulations with its beneficial properties.
  • Skin care: It serves as an excellent cleansing agent and emollient, helping to moisturize and soften the surface. It is commonly used in creams, lotions, and serums to enhance skin hydration and improve the texture. Oleic Acid's ability to penetrate the skin deeply makes it valuable in anti-aging products, as it can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
  • Hair care: It works as a conditioning agent, providing smoothness and manageability to the hair. It helps to seal moisture in the hair shaft, preventing dryness and frizz. It is often found in hair conditioners, leave-in treatments, and hair serums to improve hair texture and shine
  • Cosmetic products: It is a popular ingredient for creating desirable textures and consistencies in cosmetic formulations. It contributes to the smoothness and spreadability of products such as foundations, lipsticks, and creams. Oleic Acid can also function as a solubilizer, helping to dissolve certain ingredients and enhance the overall formulation stability

Origin

Oleic Acid is primarily obtained through the hydrolysis or saponification of natural oils that contain high levels of oleic acid, such as olive oil or sunflower oil. This process involves breaking down the triglyceride molecules in the oil into their fatty acid components, with oleic acid being one of the major constituents. The resulting oleic acid is then refined and purified for use in cosmetic and skincare formulations.

What does OLEIC ACID do in a formulation?

  • Emollient
  • Emulsifying

Safety profile

Oleic Acid is safe for use in cosmetics when used in accordance with regulations and industry standards. It is a naturally occurring fatty acid found in various vegetable oils. However, some individuals may be sensitive or allergic to Oleic Acid, so it is advisable to perform a patch test before using products containing this ingredient, especially for those with known sensitivities or allergies.

OLEIC ACID Alternatives

Technical profile

Property Values
Boiling Point 360°C
Melting Point 13-14°C
Solubility Insoluble in water
Viscosity Low
13
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