Oleyl Alcohol
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: (Z)-octadec-9-en-1-ol, 143-28-2, Ocenol, Cis-9-Octadecen-1-ol, Dermaffine, Lancol, Novol, Oceol, Oleol
Synthetic
Emollient
Fragrance
Solvent
Skin Conditioner
Clean
(9Z)-octadecen-1-ol is a long chain fatty alcohol that is octadecanol containing a double bond located at position 9 (the Z-geoisomer). It has a role as a metabolite and a nonionic surfactant. It is a long-chain primary fatty alcohol and a fatty alcohol 18:1.
Solubility Insol in water; sol in alcohol, ether
Formula
C18H36O
Mol. Weight
268.50
CAS #
143-28-2, 593-47-5
Form
Liquid
State
Liquid; Liquid, Other Solid
Functions
Perfuming
Added for scent. Can be natural or synthetic. Common irritant and allergen — one of the top reasons people react to products.
Emollient
Fills in the tiny cracks between skin cells to make everything feel smooth and soft. The "silky finish" ingredient.
Solvent
Dissolves other ingredients so they distribute evenly in the formula. Often the invisible "base" everything else is mixed into.
Viscosity Controlling
Locks In Moisture
Traditional Use
Derived from oleic acid found in olive oil and other plant oils used for centuries in traditional medicine and skincare. Modern synthetic production began in the early 20th century for use as an emollient and emulsifier in cosmetics.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
Dryness
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed2 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR