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Ingredient directory

Glyceryl Oleate

Glyceryl Oleate is a naturally derived monoester of glycerin and oleic acid, primarily functioning as a multi-tasking emulsifier, surfactant, and skin conditioning agent. It actively supports the skin's barrier function, providing mild emollient effects while enhancing formulation texture and spreadability. This versatile ingredient is well-regarded for its ability to improve skin hydration and smoothness.

Directory entry · Individual source review pending

This profile is awaiting an individual source review. Treat its ratings, dose estimates and compatibility labels as provisional; they are not medical advice or proof of a finished product’s effects.

Emulsifier Co-emulsifier Surfactant Skin conditioning agent Stabilizer Refatting agent Skin-smoothing agent Thickener

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient integrates effectively into the stratum corneum, where it mimics the skin's natural lipids to reinforce the protective barrier. By doing so, Glyceryl Oleate significantly reduces trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) and helps safeguard the skin from environmental irritants. Its lipid-replenishing action not only boosts skin hydration but also contributes to improved elasticity and a smoother complexion. Furthermore, it acts as a refatting agent, making it particularly beneficial in cleansing formulations by helping to restore lost lipids.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 0.1–6%
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

Glyceryl Oleate is a functional ingredient incorporated into formulations for its emulsifying, conditioning, or stabilizing properties. Its established usage concentrations do not indicate a risk of 'dusting' and it is not typically applied in a manner where this would be a concern.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Glyceryl Oleate functions effectively as an emulsifier (both water-in-oil and as a co-emulsifier in oil-in-water systems), stabilizer, and thickener. It can be easily incorporated into the oil or emulsifier phase and is compatible with both hot and cold processing methods. In foaming products, concentrations below 1% typically maintain product clarity, while higher inclusion levels may increase opacity.

Synergies

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Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
15%
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has concluded that Glyceryl Oleate is safe for use in current cosmetic formulations and concentrations. Human tests consistently show it to be non-irritating and non-sensitizing at concentrations up to 15%. Furthermore, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recognizes Glyceryl Oleate as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) for direct food applications.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Glyceryl Oleate is a valuable and versatile ingredient, highly regarded for its excellent skin conditioning and barrier-supporting properties, coupled with its effective roles as an emulsifier and stabilizer across a wide range of cosmetic formulations.

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