Oleic acid in skincare
A monounsaturated fatty acid found in sources including olive oil and tallow.
What is oleic acid?
A monounsaturated fatty acid found in sources including olive oil and tallow. On the ingredient list, you can find the name Oleic Acid. The dictionary uses both the common name and the INCI name, so you can compare the explanation with the packaging.
What does oleic acid do for skin and the product?
Included in fat bases and can affect spreading and skin feel.
Emollients make the surface more supple and affect how the product spreads. Lipids do not themselves add water, but some can also help retain moisture.
More oleic acid is not necessarily better. Its effect depends on the amount and formulation.
How to read the ingredient list
Look at the product's purpose and overall composition. Position on the list does not tell you the exact concentration used or how your skin will react. One substance can serve several purposes in the same product.
Questions about oleic acid
What does oleic acid do in skincare?
Included in fat bases and can affect spreading and skin feel.
What should I know about oleic acid?
More oleic acid is not necessarily better. Its effect depends on the amount and formulation.
Related ingredients
About sources and ingredient names
The European Commission's CosIng database is a reference for cosmetic ingredient names and functions. An entry does not constitute approval of all uses or evidence of a particular product effect.
DermNet: functions of moisturising care · DermNet: cosmetic formulations