Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil

Benefits
RegenerationHealingLiftingMoisturizingAcne fightingAntioxidant
Concerns
Malassezia Feeding

What is Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil?

Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil comes from pressing seeds of the Glycine max plant, yielding a pale yellow vegetable oil mainly consisting of triglycerides with unsaturated fatty acids like linoleic and oleic acids, plus natural tocopherols. In skincare products, it serves as an emollient and skin conditioning agent, typically in creams, lotions, and oils at various concentrations. It works by spreading evenly on the skin to fill irregularities, enhance product texture for better application, and create a semi-occlusive layer that minimizes water evaporation while allowing breathability. Additionally, its lipid profile mimics skin's natural oils, aiding barrier reinforcement, and inherent antioxidants help stabilize formulations against oxidation.

Comedogenic Rating 3/5 Higher risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1 View on EWG →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Antioxidant
Slows oxidation of oils, fragrances, and sensitive actives to improve shelf life and reduce rancidity or color change; sometimes also supports skin protection from oxidative stress.
Fragrance ingredient
Contributes scent character and/or masks base odors, shaping the overall sensory experience of the formula (subject to allergen and IFRA considerations).
Skin conditioning agent
Maintains skin softness, smoothness, and flexibility.
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.

Benefits

Supports skin moisture retention for smoother texture.

Offers antioxidant properties to protect against environmental stressors.

Promotes skin softening and conditioning for improved feel.

Who It's For

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

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Individuals with dry or rough skin seeking emollient effects.
Those with oily skin due to potential pore-clogging.
Those interested in plant-based antioxidants for formulation stability.
Fungal acne-prone skin as it may feed Malassezia yeast.
People with normal to combination skin needing barrier support.
Acne-prone individuals sensitive to moderately comedogenic oils.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low hazard by EWG with scores of 1 across categories.
  • Deemed safe for cosmetic use by regulatory reviews like CIR.

Frequently Asked Questions about Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil

Is Glycine Soja Oil comedogenic?

It carries a comedogenic rating of 3, meaning moderately pore-clogging, so test on oily or acne-prone skin.

What skin types suit Soybean Oil best?

Best for dry or normal skin needing moisture and softening; avoid if oily or fungal acne-prone.

Is it safe for daily use?

Yes, with low EWG hazard rating and general safety in cosmetics per expert reviews.