Sodium Ricinoleate

What is Sodium Ricinoleate?

Sodium ricinoleate is the sodium salt of ricinoleic acid, the predominant unsaturated fatty acid extracted from castor oil seeds of the Ricinus communis plant. This naturally derived anionic surfactant finds common use in rinse-off cosmetics such as liquid soaps, shampoos, facial cleansers, and body washes. It operates by decreasing the surface tension at the interface of water and hydrophobic substances like sebum and dirt, facilitating their removal through micelle formation during rinsing. Its emulsifying action stabilizes mixtures of oil and water, aiding the formulation of creamy lotions and smooth micellar waters. The ingredient also promotes lather formation, improving the cleansing ritual's efficacy and user experience. Being biodegradable and from renewable sources, it aligns with preferences for milder, plant-based alternatives in personal care.

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:

Surfactant
Lowers surface tension to enable cleansing, emulsifying, and foaming; central to shampoos, body washes, and many emulsions and micellar systems.
Cleansing agent
Removes dirt, oil, and impurities by lowering surface tension and forming micelles, enabling soils to be lifted and rinsed away from skin, hair, or teeth.
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

Enables effective removal of dirt and excess oils from skin and hair.

Stabilizes emulsions to ensure even texture in creams and lotions.

Produces mild foam for a satisfying cleanse 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
Users of daily cleansers seeking plant-based surfactants.
People with known allergies to castor oil derivatives.
Individuals incorporating emulsion products like lotions.
Those experiencing irritation from soap-based cleansers.
Those preferring natural-derived ingredients in rinse-off formulas.
Individuals advised to minimize surfactants due to barrier sensitivity.

Safety Notes

  • Considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations.
  • Presents low risk of comedogenicity or pore clogging.

Frequently Asked Questions about Sodium Ricinoleate

What is sodium ricinoleate derived from?

It comes from ricinoleic acid, the main fatty acid in castor oil from Ricinus communis seeds.

What roles does it play in cosmetics?

Acts as a surfactant for cleansing, emulsifying agent for stable blends, and foam booster in washes.

Is it suitable for sensitive skin?

Generally mild with low irritation potential, though patch testing is recommended for sensitivities.