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APRICOT KERNEL OIL PEG-8 ESTERS.

Valuable / SKIN CONDITIONING, SKIN CONDITIONING - EMOLLIENT, SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

A sophisticated, water-soluble derivative of apricot kernel oil that combines the nourishing properties of fatty acids with the versatility of a non-ionic surfactant. It is engineered to provide a soft, emollient skin feel while ensuring effortless rinse-off in cleansing formulations.

Emollient Surfactant Emulsifying agent Penetration enhancer

Science

This ingredient functions by lowering interfacial tension to stabilize oil-in-water emulsions while simultaneously depositing essential oleic and linoleic acid glycerides onto the stratum corneum. By integrating these lipids into the skin barrier, it enhances softness and acts as a penetration enhancer to improve the delivery of co-formulated active ingredients.


Research

High confidence
Effective range 0.5–10%
Optimal

3%

Key findings

  1. 01 Application at 0.5-3.0% concentrations demonstrates measurable improvements in skin smoothness, slip, and emollience without compromising the water-solubility of the final product.
  2. 02 Clinical human patch testing at 10.0% confirms the ingredient is non-sensitizing and non-toxic in repeated-dose dermal applications.

Transparency

Not commonly dusted
Min. effective
0.5%
Red flag below
0.1%

With functional benefits beginning at 0.5%, this ingredient is rarely 'dusted.' Formulations using it below this threshold may be leveraging it for minor emulsification rather than the skin-conditioning benefits associated with its apricot oil heritage.


The Formula

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 4 – 9
0 7 14

Stability

Exhibits robust stability across a broad pH spectrum and maintains integrity in electrolyte-rich environments. Its non-ionic nature allows for seamless integration with most surfactant systems.

Synergies

  • Anionic surfactants
  • Active molecules requiring penetration enhancement
  • Humectants

Conflicts

  • Strong oxidizing agents
  • High-load cationic conditioning systems

Safety

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
40%
Pregnancy
Safe
Sensitization risk Low

The CIR allows for concentrations up to 97% in rinse-off products, though leave-on applications are typically capped at 40% to ensure non-irritating profiles.


Your Skin

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Valuable

A high-performance multifunctional ester that delivers the lipid benefits of apricot oil with the technical precision of a modern emulsifier.


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