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.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
Plant-based PEG-free O/W emulsifier. Safety confirmed by CIR. No standalone activity – it is a formula structurant.
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.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
SafeSuitable for
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to Wildberries, Goldapple, Letu, iHerb, Sephora and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Glyceryl Oleate Citrate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Glyceryl Oleate Citrate suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
Plant-derived O/W emulsifier based on glycerin, oleic acid, and citric acid.
On the Fulton scale 0/5 – non-comedogenic. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
The INCI name is Glyceryl Oleate Citrate. It may also appear as: Citrol, Глицерил олеат цитрат.
Published: · updated: