Product: Glyceryl Oleate
Rchem Glyceryl Oleate is a high-purity, non-ionic lipophilic emulsifier and emollient, presented as a clear to slightly hazy, pale yellow to amber, viscous liquid or semi-solid paste. Chemically, it is the monoester of glycerin and oleic acid (an unsaturated omega-9 fatty acid derived from vegetable oils). Renowned for its exceptional skin-feel, emulsifying properties, and ability to stabilize formulations, it is a cornerstone ingredient in natural and conventional cosmetic formulations for producing stable water-in-oil (W/O) and oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions, as well as a co-emulsifier and refatting agent.
Category: powder
Description
Key Features & Benefits:
● Excellent natural thickening agent with high viscosity at low concentrations
● Effective stabilizer for emulsions and suspensions in various formulations
● Clean-label ingredient suitable for organic and natural product formulations
● Improves texture and shelf life in food products
● Enhances viscosity and stability in cosmetic formulations
● Cost-effective alternative to synthetic thickeners and stabilizers
Technical Specifications Table:
Property
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Product Origin
PALM DERIVATIVES STATUS
VEGAN SUITABLE
Chemical Formulae
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the primary difference between Glyceryl Oleate and Glyceryl Stearate?
The primary difference is the fatty acid chain (oleic vs. stearic) and the resulting physical properties: Glyceryl Oleate: Unsaturated (C18:1, contains a double bond) → Lower melting point (liquid/semi-solid at room temperature) → Creates softer, more spreadable emulsions with a lighter skin feel. Glyceryl Stearate: Saturated (C18:0, fully saturated) → Higher melting point (solid flake/wax) → Creates firmer, more stable emulsions with a richer, more protective skin feel. Glyceryl Oleate is preferred for lighter lotions and natural formulations, while Glyceryl Stearate is preferred for richer creams and balms.
Glyceryl Oleate has a low HLB (~3-4) and is primarily used as a lipophilic co-emulsifier or for stabilizing water-in-oil (W/O) emulsions. For conventional oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions (creams, lotions), it is rarely used alone as the primary emulsifier. Instead, it is combined with a high-HLB emulsifier (e.g., Ceteareth-20, Polysorbate 60, or Glyceryl Stearate SE – self-emulsifying). This combination produces more stable, elegant emulsions with improved skin feel than using a high-HLB emulsifier alone.
Can Glyceryl Oleate function as a primary emulsifier, or is it only a co-emulsifier?
Yes, absolutely. Glyceryl Oleate is widely used in natural and ECOCERT-certified cosmetics due to its derivation from vegetable oils and glycerin. It is approved by major natural certification bodies (COSMOS, ECOCERT, NATRUE) when derived from appropriate sources (non-GMO, organic-compatible oils). It is an excellent alternative to ethoxylated emulsifiers for natural formulations seeking a mild, biodegradable, and effective emulsification system.
Is Glyceryl Oleate suitable for natural and ECOCERT-certified formulations?
Glyceryl Oleate exhibits mild antimicrobial activity, primarily against gram-positive bacteria and certain yeasts. The mechanism involves its ability to disrupt microbial cell membranes. While it is not a preservative on its own, when combined with other antimicrobial agents (e.g., organic acids, phenoxyethanol, or chelators), it can create a synergistic effect, allowing formulators to reduce the concentration of traditional preservatives while maintaining product safety. This makes it highly valued in "preservative-free" or "self-preserving" natural formulations.
How does Glyceryl Oleate act as an antimicrobial booster?
Handling: Glyceryl Oleate is a viscous liquid or semi-solid at room temperature. It may require gentle warming (30-40°C / 86-104°F) to reduce viscosity for easier handling and pouring. Use appropriate PPE including gloves and safety goggles. Formulation: For O/W emulsions, incorporate Glyceryl Oleate into the oil phase along with other lipophilic ingredients and high-HLB emulsifiers. Heat both phases to 70-75°C (158-167°F) before emulsification. For W/O emulsions, disperse it into the oil phase with proper homogenization. Storage: Store in a cool, dry place in tightly sealed containers to prevent oxidation (due to the unsaturated oleic acid chain). Protect from light and heat. Shelf life is typically 18-24 months under proper storage. Always refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for comprehensive handling, safety, and first-aid information.
