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TALL OIL ACID.

Valuable CAS 61790-12-3 / CLEANSING, SKIN CONDITIONING - EMOLLIENT, SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

Tall Oil Acid, a naturally derived blend of fatty and resin acids, serves as a versatile ingredient in skincare. It effectively cleanses and aids in emulsion formation while providing significant skin conditioning benefits, locking in moisture to maintain softness and suppleness. Furthermore, its resin acid components have been shown to offer anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial for various skin concerns.

skin conditioning emulsifying surfactant anti-inflammatory

Science

Tall Oil Acid functions as a surfactant, facilitating the mixing of water with oil and dirt for effective cleansing. It also acts as an emulsifier by reducing surface tension, which is crucial for stable product formulations. When applied topically, it forms a protective barrier on the skin, enhancing moisture retention and contributing to a softer, smoother complexion. Additionally, specific resin acid components within Tall Oil Acid have demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects through the inhibition of inflammatory mediators such as cytokines and prostaglandins.


Research

Medium confidence
Effective range 1–100%
Optimal

90-100% (purified Tall Oil Fatty Acids)

Key findings

  1. 01 Clinical application in concentrations ranging from 1% to 90%, often combined with vegetable oils, has demonstrated utility in skin care products designed for dry and scaling skin, as well as for the management of psoriasis, dermatitis, and eczemas.
  2. 02 Highly purified Tall Oil Fatty Acids, specifically in concentrations of 80-100% (preferably 90-100%, e.g., 96%), have shown efficacy in addressing dry and scaling skin, psoriasis, dermatitis, and eczemas.
  3. 03 Oleic acid, a primary constituent of Tall Oil Acid, has been assessed in clinical primary and cumulative irritation studies, demonstrating non-irritating potential at concentrations up to 100% (when delivered as 40-50% in mineral oil) and non-sensitizing effects in cosmetic formulations below 14%.

Transparency

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

The polyunsaturated fatty acids that are major components of Tall Oil Acid are susceptible to oxidation during formulation, which can potentially lead to the formation of dermal sensitizers. Proper antioxidant inclusion and packaging are advisable.

Synergies

  • Vegetable oils (for enhancing efficacy in treating dry and scaling skin conditions)

Conflicts

  • High concentrations of resin acids (for individuals with known resin allergy)

Safety

CIR Status
Safe as used
Sensitization risk Low

The CIR Expert Panel has deemed Tall Oil Acid and its salts safe for cosmetic and personal care products, provided they are formulated to be non-irritating and non-sensitizing. Its safety assessment is based on concentrations commonly used in cosmetic applications. It is permitted by the FDA as an indirect food additive and can be used in cosmetics within the EU's general regulatory framework.


Your Skin

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

Our Assessment

Valuable

Tall Oil Acid is a multifunctional ingredient, effectively cleansing, emulsifying, conditioning, and potentially soothing skin, especially beneficial for dry or irritated conditions when properly formulated to ensure stability and mitigate potential for oxidation.


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