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Moumoujus

TALLOW ACID.

Valuable CAS 61790-37-2 / CLEANSING, REFATTING, SKIN CONDITIONING, SKIN CONDITIONING - EMOLLIENT, SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

Tallow Acid, a primary fatty acid component of natural tallow, presents a lipid profile remarkably similar to human skin's natural sebum. It effectively functions as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent, establishing a breathable protective barrier to optimize skin hydration and support barrier integrity.

Summary

Emollient Skin-Conditioning Agent Surfactant/Cleansing

Science

Mechanism of Action

Mimicking the skin's natural sebum, Tallow Acid delivers essential fatty acids, including oleic, palmitic, and stearic acids, directly to the stratum corneum. This action effectively increases endogenous fatty acid concentration, forming a breathable occlusive layer that minimizes transepidermal water loss and locks in moisture. Beyond hydration, Tallow Acid supports skin barrier repair, aids in balancing skin pH, and provides antioxidant and nourishing benefits through its inherent fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K).

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

No data available to suggest Tallow Acid is commonly dusted or to establish a dusting threshold.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Tallow oleic acid, a significant constituent of Tallow Acid, is prone to oxidation upon air exposure, leading to discoloration (yellow/brown) and rancid odors. It can decompose between 80-100 °C under normal pressure. High-temperature processing can exacerbate oxidation and diminish beneficial properties. Traces of water may cause hydrolytic rancidity and bacterial contamination, necessitating moisture control during processing. Tallow Acid reacts exothermically with strong acids and caustic solutions, and strong oxidizing acids may cause a vigorous reaction, potentially leading to ignition.

Conflicts

  • strong acids (liberates heat)
  • caustic solutions (generates heat)
  • strong oxidizing acids (vigorous reaction, potential ignition)
  • alkali metals and hydrides (generates flammable hydrogen)

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Sensitization risk Unknown

The CIR Expert Panel concluded that Tallow and its derivatives, including Tallow Acid, are safe for cosmetic use under current practices, having addressed concerns regarding bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) by ensuring sufficient processing and purification. The FDA classifies Tallow as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) for certain food applications and permits its use in cosmetics when properly processed. Formulators must ensure that products containing fatty acids and fatty acid salts are non-irritating, particularly when combined with ingredients that might enhance dermal absorption.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Tallow Acid is a valuable emollient and skin-conditioning agent, particularly beneficial for dry and normal skin types due to its natural sebum-mimicking fatty acid profile and proven barrier-supporting properties.

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