Oleyl Erucate

Good

Occlusive-opacifying agent

Oleyl Erucate at a glance

  • Ester of oleyl alcohol and erucic acid
  • Serves as a humectant
  • Also a solvent and opacifier
  • Ruled safe as used in cosmetics

Oleyl Erucate description

Oleyl erucate is an ester of oleyl alcohol (which can be derived from fish oil and vegetable sources) and erucic acid, a type of omega fatty acid. In cosmetics, it primarily functions as a humectant, meaning it attracts water to skin. It also works as an occlusive and opacifying agent and solvent. On skin it’s known for aiding spreadability of creams and for its non-greasy finish. The independent Cosmetic Ingredient Review has deemed oleyl erucate safe in its current usage in cosmetics, where its percentage used ranges from 1-12%. Oleyl erucate is also known by the trade name TEGOSOFT® OER MB.

Oleyl Erucate references

  • SpecialChem, Website, Accessed October 2025
  • CoSmile Europe, Website, Accessed October 2025
  • UL Prospector, Website, Accessed October 2025
  • Materials, January 2024, pages 1-30
  • International Journal of Toxicology, September 2015, pages 5S-69S

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.