Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil
Soybean oil – about 50% linoleic and 25% oleic acid, lecithin, tocopherols. A medium-occlusive emollient. Contains isoflavones (genistein, daidzein) with in-vitro anti-aging activity. Avoid in soy-allergic patients. Pregnancy-safe.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Emollient with antioxidant support from tocopherols and phytosterols. The anti-aging activity of isoflavones is strong in vitro but with limited cream-based RCT data. Traffic light YELLOW due to moderate allergen risk and comedogenicity 3.
- Wei H et al. Genistein protects against UV-induced photodamage. Photochem Photobiol 2003;78:113-120. PMID 14608119
- Sudel KM et al. Novel aspects of intrinsic and extrinsic aging of human skin: beneficial effects of soy extract. Photochem Photobiol 2005;81:581-587. PMID 15623355
How to read tiers A–F
- CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Moderate
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry
- Use with caution
- Oily, Combination
About this ingredient
Soybean oil (Glycine soja oil) is extracted from the seeds of Glycine max. The fatty-acid profile: ~50-55% linoleic, 22-25% oleic, 8-10% palmitic, 5-8% linolenic. Additional components include up to 1.5% lecithin, tocopherols (~100 mg/100 g), phytosterols, and small amounts of the isoflavones genistein and daidzein. INCI: Glycine Soja Oil. Biologically active components. In vitro, soy isoflavones bind to estrogen receptors and show weak estrogen-like activity. In fibroblast cultures, genistein stimulates collagen synthesis and inhibits MMP-1 (matrix metalloproteinase-1), the basis of anti-photoaging claims. At the clinical RCT level the effects of soybean oil on skin are more modest – mainly the antioxidant action of tocopherols and phytosterols and barrier support from linoleic acid. Applications. In creams and lotions – an emollient with hydrating action. In post-procedure formulas – a barrier component. In hair products – a carrier for essential oils and vitamins. Use levels are 1-15%. Pregnancy safety. Topical use is safe. Systemic absorption of isoflavones through the skin is minimal – blood concentrations do not rise noticeably after cosmetic application. Oral consumption of soy products in normal dietary amounts is not contraindicated in pregnancy. Skin tolerance. In non-soy-allergic patients, low irritation potential. Allergen risk is medium – patients with confirmed IgE soy allergy (1-2% of the population) may show skin reactions. Comedogenic score 3 – in acne-prone skin at high concentrations it can worsen comedones.
Frequently asked questions
Is Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil safe during pregnancy?
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil for?
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil suits: normal, dry. Use with caution in: oily, combination.
What is Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil and what does it do in cosmetics?
Soybean oil – about 50% linoleic and 25% oleic acid, lecithin, tocopherols.
Is Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil comedogenic?
On the Fulton scale 3/5 – moderate comedogenicity. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
What's the INCI name for Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil?
The INCI name is Glycine Soja Oil. It may also appear as: Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Soybean Oil.
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