murphyGlyceryl Citrate/Lactate/Linoleate/Oleate
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Glyceryl Mixed Esters
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Clean
OriginDerived from glycerol combined with citric acid, lactic acid, linoleic acid, and oleic acid—both plant-derived and synthetic sources. Synthesized through esterification reactions that chemically bond the fatty acids and hydroxy acids to the glycerol backbone.
9-Octadeceneoic acid, mixed esters with glycerol, 9,12-octadecadienoic acid, 2-hydroxy-1,2,3-propanetricarboxylic acid, and 2-hydroxypropanoic acid
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
Dryness
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Functions
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Surfactant Emulsifying
Moisturizing
Strengthens Barrier
Anti-Inflammatory
Mixes oil and water
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewednone on file
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed4 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
EWG
1
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not Phototoxic
CIR Panel statement found no phototoxicity in the CIR safety assessment (CIR 344)
Not an Eye Irritant
2 studies / 2 not irritating (CIR 320 and 706)
Not a Sensitizer
1 study / 1 not sensitizing (CIR 320)
Mixed Skin Irritation Results
4 studies / 1 irritating / 3 not irritating (CIR 320 and 706)
Concentration Guide
Leave-onNot reported
Rinse-off0.0004–0.004%
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · 2014 survey
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR