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GLYCERYL OLEATE SE.

Valuable / SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

Glyceryl Oleate SE is a versatile, self-emulsifying monoester primarily valued for its ability to stabilize water-oil formulations. It also functions as an effective emollient, conditioning the skin by enhancing moisture retention and supporting barrier function.

Summary

Emollient Emulsifying Thickener Skin Conditioning Agent Stabilizer Refatting Agent Co-Surfactant

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient operates as a critical co-emulsifier and stabilizer, reducing surface tension to facilitate the creation of stable water-oil emulsions. On the skin, it acts as an emollient and conditioning agent, drawing moisture in and forming a protective layer that boosts smoothness and hydration. Its refatting properties help to replenish epidermal lipids, thereby fortifying the skin's natural barrier and diminishing trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL). As a nonionic co-surfactant, it further enhances product thickness and contributes to cleansing and foaming performance. The 'SE' designation signifies its self-emulsifying nature, aided by minor inclusions of sodium or potassium oleate for superior water integration.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 5–15%
Optimal

5-15% is consistently shown to be effective and safe in human studies.

Key findings

  1. 01 Human repeated insult patch tests have demonstrated that formulations containing Glyceryl Oleate, at concentrations ranging from 5% to 15%, are non-irritating and non-sensitizing.
  2. 02 A 5% concentration in sunscreen formulations and a 15% aqueous preparation both showed no signs of irritation or sensitization in human tests.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH 4 – 8
0 7 14

Stability

While Glyceryl Oleate is inherently oil-soluble, its 'SE' (Self-Emulsifying) grade is engineered to blend seamlessly with water, forming stable emulsions through the inclusion of minor surfactant components like sodium or potassium oleate. It is typically integrated into the oil phase during formulation and is compatible with both hot and cold processing methods. This ingredient is adept at creating water-in-oil emulsions (with an HLB of 3.5) and serves as a co-emulsifier and thickener in oil-in-water systems. For maintaining clarity in surfactant-based products such as shampoos, lower concentrations (0.5-1%) are recommended.

Synergies

  • Synergizes with primary emulsifiers to enhance emulsion stability and texture.

Safety

Safety Profile

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

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has affirmed Glyceryl Oleate SE as safe for use in cosmetics within current concentration ranges. While undiluted forms might cause mild irritation on abraded skin, formulations containing up to 15% Glyceryl Oleate have been consistently proven non-irritating and non-sensitizing in human studies.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Glyceryl Oleate SE is a highly valuable ingredient for its dual functionality as an effective emulsion stabilizer and a beneficial skin conditioner across a wide range of cosmetic applications, demonstrating excellent safety and compatibility.

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