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Glyceryl Linoleate

What Glyceryl Linoleate is & what it does

Glyceryl Linoleate is the monoester of glycerin and linoleic acid, a common plant-derived fatty acid. In cosmetic and sunscreen formulas it works as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent, and it can also help stabilize emulsions as a co-emulsifier. Its linoleic acid content makes it a lipid that is naturally present in the skin's own barrier.

What does Glyceryl Linoleate do in skincare?

Glyceryl Linoleate is an emollient and skin-conditioning agent formed from glycerin and linoleic acid. It helps soften the skin and can act as a co-emulsifier that keeps the oil and water parts of a formula blended. Its linoleic acid is a fatty acid naturally found in the skin barrier.

Is Glyceryl Linoleate comedogenic?

Glyceryl Linoleate is generally regarded as low risk for clogging pores, since it is based on linoleic acid rather than heavier oleic acid. As with any emollient, individual skin can vary, so a patch test is reasonable for acne-prone users. It is commonly used in leave-on facial products.

Is Glyceryl Linoleate natural or synthetic?

Glyceryl Linoleate is typically described as nature-derived but processed. It is made by combining glycerin and linoleic acid, both of which usually come from plant sources, through esterification. The end result is a refined ingredient rather than something used straight from a plant.

Sunscreens with Glyceryl Linoleate

We rate 14 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

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