Glyceryl Ricinoleate

What is Glyceryl Ricinoleate?

Glyceryl ricinoleate is a monoacylglycerol ester produced by reacting glycerol with ricinoleic acid, the main unsaturated fatty acid from castor oil seeds (Ricinus communis). This plant-based, viscous liquid features a hydroxyl group that enhances its solubility and functionality in formulations. Commonly found in skincare creams, lotions, cleansers, and shampoos, it works by adsorbing at oil-water interfaces to form stable emulsions, preventing phase separation for consistent product texture. Its emollient nature involves coating the skin to mimic natural lipids, promoting smoothness and reducing friction. As a mild surfactant, it lowers interfacial tension, facilitating even ingredient dispersion and mild foaming without stripping the skin's barrier. Sourced renewably, it supports water-resistant films in rinse-off and leave-on products.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1 View on EWG →
PubChem View on PubChem →

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

Provides a smooth, supple feel by softening skin surface and improving product slip.

Enables stable blending of oils and water for uniform creams and lotions.

Supports gentle cleansing through surface tension reduction in washes and shampoos.

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 dry or rough skin needing softening agents.
Those with known allergies to castor oil or ricinoleic acid.
Users of emulsion-based moisturizers for better texture.
People who react to glyceryl esters in personal testing.
Individuals seeking plant-derived surfactants for mild cleansers.
Individuals sensitive to surfactants in rinse-off products.

Safety Notes

  • Generally recognized as safe in cosmetics at typical use levels.
  • Low potential for skin irritation or comedogenicity.

Frequently Asked Questions about Glyceryl Ricinoleate

What is Glyceryl Ricinoleate?

A glycerol ester of ricinoleic acid from castor oil, used as an emollient, emulsifier, and surfactant in cosmetics.

Is it safe for skin?

Evaluated as low hazard with minimal irritation risk in standard cosmetic applications.

Does it cause breakouts?

Rated non-comedogenic, suitable for acne-prone skin without pore-clogging concerns.