C18:1 monounsaturated fatty acid; major component of olive oil; emollient; penetration enhancer (disrupts lipid bilayer, consider for high-active formulas); sebum component; well-tolerated
Function & Common Use
Emollient / Emulsifier Component / Penetration Enhancer
Emollient
Soaps creams emulsions penetration enhancer systems
Vegetable (olive oil) / Animal
Concentration Limits
No limit
No limit
No specific 21 CFR cosmetic limit identified in source checked
No specific MFDS limit identified in source checked; verify if ingredient is used in a Korean functional cosmetic category
Pregnancy: No specific restriction identified in source checked; standard cosmetic use
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Oleic Acid safe to use in skincare?
Oleic Acid has a Low concern rating from The Clean Sheet. C18:1 monounsaturated fatty acid; major component of olive oil; emollient; penetration enhancer (disrupts lipid bilayer, consider for high-active formulas); sebum component; well-tolerated
Is Oleic Acid allowed in India?
Oleic Acid is currently classified as "Permitted" under Indian cosmetics regulations. No concentration limit is specified for India.
What is Oleic Acid used for in cosmetics?
Oleic Acid functions as: Emollient / Emulsifier Component / Penetration Enhancer. It is commonly found in: Soaps creams emulsions penetration enhancer systems.
Regulatory Status
Cosmetic ingredient; standard TGA cosmetic framework applies; no therapeutic goods listing required unless therapeutic claims are made
Not specifically listed as restricted cosmetic ingredient in NHPID source checked; standard Health Canada cosmetic notification applies
Identifiers
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Reviewed by The Clean Sheet, with our verdict.