Sodium Oleate
A soap salt of oleic acid. It cleanses and emulsifies; frequent washing may dry the skin. Moderately tolerated.
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
Sodium Oleate (INCI: Sodium Oleate) is the sodium salt of oleic acid – essentially a soap. In a formula it cleanses and emulsifies, serving as a surfactant and stabilizer in soaps, syndets, and some emulsions. It is a functional cleansing-and-structure ingredient, not a care active. Its job is to lift oil and help bind phases, with no hydration or treatment beyond washing. In rinse-off topical use it has no systemic relevance, so it can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding without concern. Tolerance is moderate. Irritation and allergy are low, but as a soap it works at alkaline pH and, with frequent use, can dry the skin and somewhat disturb the barrier, especially on dry skin. In those cases it helps to alternate with lower-pH cleansers.
Frequently asked questions
Is Sodium Oleate safe during pregnancy?
Sodium Oleate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Sodium Oleate for?
Sodium Oleate suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Sodium Oleate and what does it do in cosmetics?
A soap salt of oleic acid.
What's the INCI name for Sodium Oleate?
The INCI name is Sodium Oleate.
See Sodium Oleate in a product composition right on the store page
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Similar role in the formula
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