Glyceryl Oleate Citrate
Plant-derived O/W emulsifier based on glycerin, oleic acid, and citric acid. Stabilizes lightweight emulsions and creams and gives a smooth after-feel. Low allergenicity, safe in pregnancy and for sensitive skin.
Supporting ingredient
It gives a product its texture, stability or shelf life. It has no claimed effect on the skin, so an efficacy tier does not apply. What is known about its safety is below
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Glyceryl Oleate Citrate is a plant-derived O/W (oil-in-water) emulsifier produced by esterifying glycerin with oleic acid and citric acid. Sold under the Citrol brand by Stearinerie Dubois, it appears in clean formulas of European and Asian brands. INCI: Glyceryl Oleate Citrate. In formulas it stabilizes lotions and lightweight creams, typically at 1-5%. Compatible with electrolytes and broad pH ranges – works in acidic vitamin C formulas and neutral peptide formulas. Gives a smooth, quickly absorbed texture without a greasy film. Often combined with Glyceryl Stearate Citrate for added stability. Pregnancy safety. Topical use is safe. Systemic absorption is minimal – the molecule is hydrolyzed by skin esterases to natural metabolites. No teratogenic effects in the literature. Skin tolerance. Low irritation and allergen potential. Non-comedogenic. Suitable for sensitive skin. Unlike PEG-based emulsifiers, citrate esters carry no 1,4-dioxane residues and are accepted in pediatric and dermatologist-tested products. No standalone active effects. This is a formula-structure component. The oleic acid bound into the copolymer is chemically tied up and does not act like free oleic acid, which can disrupt the barrier in atopic skin.
Frequently asked questions
Is Glyceryl Oleate Citrate safe during pregnancy?
Glyceryl Oleate Citrate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Glyceryl Oleate Citrate for?
Glyceryl Oleate Citrate suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Glyceryl Oleate Citrate and what does it do in cosmetics?
Plant-derived O/W emulsifier based on glycerin, oleic acid, and citric acid.
Is Glyceryl Oleate Citrate comedogenic?
On the Fulton scale 0/5 – non-comedogenic. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
What's the INCI name for Glyceryl Oleate Citrate?
The INCI name is Glyceryl Oleate Citrate. It may also appear as: Citrol.
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Similar role in the formula
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