Ingredient
Sodium Oleate
Oleic Acid Sodium Salt
Sodium Salt of Oleic Acid
What it is
Sodium Oleate is the sodium salt of oleic acid, essentially a soap made from a monounsaturated fatty acid. It is used in cleansing bars, washes, and some emulsions as a surfactant and emulsifying agent.
How it works
As a fatty-acid soap it forms micelles that lift oil and dirt from the skin surface, and its amphiphilic structure also helps stabilize oil-in-water emulsions.
What it does
Surfactant
Cleansing
Emulsifier
Concerns to know
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Potential irritant
May cause irritation for sensitive skin, particularly at higher concentrations.