Oleic Acid
AKA: 112-80-1, Cis-9-Octadecenoic acid, (Z)-Octadec-9-enoic acid, Cis-Oleic acid, Wecoline OO, Elaidoic acid, Vopcolene 27, Glycon wo, Glycon RO
Plant-Derived Synthetic
Emollient
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Skin Conditioner
Acid
Clean
Oleic acid is an unsaturated fatty acid that occurs naturally in various animal and vegetable fats and oils. It is an odorless, colourless oil, although commercial samples may be yellowish. In chemical terms, oleic acid is classified as a monounsaturated omega-9 fatty acid. It has the formula CH3(CH2)7CH=CH(CH2)7COOH. The term "oleic" means related to, or derived from, oil or olive, the oil that is predominantly composed of oleic acid. Oleic acid is the most widely distributed and abundant fatty acid in nature. It is used commercially in the preparation of oleates and lotions, and as a pharmaceutical solvent. Oleic acid is a major constituent of plant oils e.g. olive oil (about 80%), almond oil (about 80%) and many others, mainly as glyceride. It is also a constituent of tall oil and present in fruits. Oleic acid is a food additive and is used in manufacturing of surfactants, soaps, plasticizers. It is also an emulsifying agent in foods and pharmaceuticals. Oleic acid is a known skin
Solubility Insoluble (NTP, 1992)
Formula
C18H34O2
Mol. Weight
282.50
CAS #
112-80-1
Form
Liquid
Functions
Emollient
Fills in the tiny cracks between skin cells to make everything feel smooth and soft. The "silky finish" ingredient.
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Locks In Moisture
Traditional Use
A monounsaturated fatty acid found abundantly in olive oil, avocado, and other botanical sources used for millennia. Historically valued in skin care for its penetrating and emollient properties.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types, gentle
Best For
Dryness
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed3 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR