Ethyl Linolenate ●
TL;DR. This ingredient functions mainly as a skin-conditioning emollient, helping soften the feel of skin and improve slip in oils, serums, creams, and lotions. It can also support a lighter, less greasy sensory profile compared with heavier triglyceride oils.
What does Ethyl Linolenate do in a cosmetic formula?
This ingredient functions mainly as a skin-conditioning emollient, helping soften the feel of skin and improve slip in oils, serums, creams, and lotions. It can also support a lighter, less greasy sensory profile compared with heavier triglyceride oils.
Is Ethyl Linolenate clean?
From a clean-beauty perspective, it is generally low concern and not a common restricted-list ingredient. Its main formulation caveat is oxidation, so well-designed formulas usually pair it with antioxidants and protective packaging.
Is Ethyl Linolenate sustainable?
This material is typically derived from plant oil fatty acids and a simple alcohol feedstock, though sourcing can vary by supplier. It is expected to be readily biodegradable, with a lower persistence profile than silicone or fluorinated emollients.
Is Ethyl Linolenate COSMOS-approved?
It can align with COSMOS-natural when made from natural feedstocks through permitted esterification chemistry, but final acceptance depends on supplier documentation and process details. From a Green Chemistry lens, it fits best when renewable inputs, efficient esterification, and minimal solvent use are documented.
How does Ethyl Linolenate work chemically?
The molecule is a C18 polyunsaturated fatty-acid ester with three double bonds, which gives fluidity and a light emollient feel but also increases oxidation sensitivity. It is oil-soluble, not water-soluble, and is best protected with antioxidants such as tocopherol plus air- and light-conscious packaging.
Last updated 2026-05-13