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SODIUM RICINOLEATE.

Valuable CAS 5323-95-5 / CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

Sodium Ricinoleate is an anionic surfactant derived from castor oil, renowned for its dual role as an effective cleansing agent and a stable emulsifier. Its amphiphilic nature allows it to efficiently reduce surface tension, promoting stable formulations and thorough skin cleansing by solubilizing impurities.

Summary

Cleansing Emulsifying Surfactant Skin Conditioning Antimicrobial

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient functions primarily as an anionic surfactant and emulsifier. Its molecular structure facilitates the reduction of interfacial tension between immiscible phases like oil and water, ensuring the stability and homogeneity of formulations. As a cleansing agent, Sodium Ricinoleate forms micelles that encapsulate and lift sebum, dirt, and other impurities from the skin's surface, allowing them to be easily rinsed away. Beyond cleansing, it may enhance skin conditioning by contributing to a smoother feel and aiding in moisture retention through occlusive properties. It also exhibits antimicrobial characteristics, which can support the preservation of cosmetic formulations.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Insufficient-data confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH ≥7
0 7 14

Stability

Aqueous solutions of Sodium Ricinoleate are inherently alkaline, typically presenting with pH values greater than 7.0. It is characterized as a basic organic salt.

Conflicts

  • Oxidizing agents (e.g., nitrates, oxidizing acids, chlorine bleaches), due to potential ignition risk.
  • Acids, as it will react bascially to neutralize them, generating heat.
  • Specific non-ionic or amphoteric surfactants, where their functional integrity might be compromised by the anionic properties of sodium ricinoleate.
  • Formulations designed for low-foaming, given its inherent soap-forming and lathering capabilities.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel deems Sodium Ricinoleate and related castor oil derivatives safe for cosmetic applications. Comprehensive assessments indicate minimal toxic effects across acute, subchronic, and chronic exposures, absence of genotoxicity, and no sensitizing potential. The FDA also recognizes it in its Inventory of Food Contact Substances. When manufactured for cosmetic and food-grade use, specific castor bean constituents that could cause irritation are meticulously removed, ensuring a mild profile with low irritation potential in formulations.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Sodium Ricinoleate is a valuable ingredient, particularly in cleansing and emulsified systems, offering effective impurity removal and formulation stability with a low irritation risk for all skin types.

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