Glyceryl Hydrogenated Rosinate

What is Glyceryl Hydrogenated Rosinate?

Glyceryl Hydrogenated Rosinate is a synthetic ester formed by reacting glycerin with the hydrogenated resin acids from pine tree oleoresin, primarily sourced from Pinus species. Hydrogenation stabilizes the rosin by saturating its double bonds, yielding a colorless to pale yellow, viscous, tacky substance resistant to oxidation. In cosmetics, it appears in lipsticks, mascaras, eyeliners, nail products, and some cleansers or creams. It works as an emollient by mimicking natural skin lipids to fill surface imperfections and enhance slip. As a surfactant, it reduces surface tension for improved spreading and foaming. Its emulsifying properties create a protective film at oil-water interfaces, stabilizing emulsions for uniform product consistency and application.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 2-5 View on EWG →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Emollient
Softens and smooths skin by filling in surface roughness and improving slip; can also help reduce moisture loss when paired with occlusives and film formers.
Surfactant
Lowers surface tension to enable cleansing, emulsifying, and foaming; central to shampoos, body washes, and many emulsions and micellar systems.
Emulsifying agent
Enables stable mixing of oil and water phases by forming an interfacial film, helping create lotions, creams, and cleansers with consistent texture.

Benefits

Softens skin surface and improves product spreadability through emollient action.

Stabilizes oil-water mixtures in creams and lotions as an emulsifying agent.

Aids cleansing and foaming in washes via surfactant effects.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
People with rough or dry-feeling skin needing emollient support.
Those allergic to pine resin or rosin derivatives.
Users of emulsion-based moisturizers or cleansers for better texture.
People sensitive to tacky or adhesive-like textures.
Individuals seeking stable, non-separating cosmetic formulas.
Individuals with fragrance or natural extract sensitivities.

Safety Notes

  • Considered safe for cosmetic use by regulatory reviews with low toxicity.
  • Low comedogenic rating indicates minimal pore-clogging potential.

Frequently Asked Questions about Glyceryl Hydrogenated Rosinate

What is Glyceryl Hydrogenated Rosinate made from?

It's the glycerin ester of acids from hydrogenated pine rosin, a tree resin derivative.

Is it safe for daily cosmetic use?

Regulatory assessments deem it safe at typical cosmetic concentrations with low concern levels.

Does it cause irritation?

Evidence from safety reviews shows low potential for skin or eye irritation.