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RICINOLEIC ACID.

Valuable CAS 141-22-0 / 7431-95-0 / CLEANSING, SKIN CONDITIONING - EMOLLIENT, SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

Ricinoleic acid is a monounsaturated fatty acid, predominantly found in castor oil, recognized for its multifaceted benefits for skin. It acts as an emollient, promoting hydration and reinforcing the skin barrier, while also possessing intrinsic anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

Summary

emollient occlusive skin conditioning anti-inflammatory antimicrobial

Science

Mechanism of Action

This fatty acid works on the skin through several pathways: it significantly moisturizes by forming an emollient layer that aids moisture retention and supports skin barrier function. Beyond hydration, ricinoleic acid actively modulates inflammatory responses, reducing swelling and irritation. It also exhibits antimicrobial efficacy, inhibiting the proliferation of various bacteria and fungi on the skin's surface.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 While robust clinical trials specifically for isolated ricinoleic acid in humans are limited, its primary source, castor oil (comprising up to 90% ricinoleic acid), is widely applied topically at concentrations up to 77.8% in moisturizers for skin hydration and wound healing.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH 6.2 – 7
0 7 14

Stability

Ricinoleic acid is susceptible to oxidative degradation, becoming rancid upon exposure to oxygen, necessitating robust antioxidant systems in formulations. Stable castor oil emulsions, rich in ricinoleic acid, have demonstrated stability within a mildly acidic to neutral pH range (6.2-7.0).

Synergies

  • Enhances transdermal penetration of other cosmetic actives.

Conflicts

  • Oxidative environments (leading to rancidity).

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
77.8%
Sensitization risk Low

The CIR Expert Panel has deemed ricinoleic acid, along with castor oil and its derivatives, safe for cosmetic use within established practices and concentrations. The FDA approves castor oil as a stimulant laxative, but its cosmetic application falls under CIR assessment. No specific SCCS safety assessment for ricinoleic acid was identified. The maximum concentration of 77.8% refers to castor oil's reported use in moisturizers, which is rich in ricinoleic acid.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Ricinoleic acid is a valuable emollient and skin conditioner, offering significant moisturizing, barrier-supporting, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial benefits with a low risk of irritation and comedogenicity.

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