Oleyl alcohol

• BPOleyl Alcohol
• Ph. Eur.Oleyl Alcohol
• USP–NFOleyl Alcohol

(Z)-9-Octadecen-1-ol; cis-9-octadecen-1-ol; oleic alcohol; alcohol oleicus; HD-Eutanol V; Novol; Ocenol

(Z)-Octadec-9-en-1-ol · [143-28-2]

UNII 172F2WN8DV · PubChem CID 5284499

C18H36O · 268.48

Penetration enhancer, Semi-solid base, emollient

Typical concentrations: — · Dosage forms: Semi-solid

Used in topical creams, lotions and ointments as an emollient, co-emulsifier and oily solvent, and in transdermal and topical products as a skin penetration enhancer. It is also used in cosmetics and hair products.

A clear, colourless to pale yellow, oily liquid with a faint characteristic odour. It consists mainly of oleyl alcohol together with related saturated and unsaturated fatty alcohols.

Physical state

liquid at room temperature; becomes cloudy and solidifies on cooling (roughly below 10–20 °C, grade-dependent)

Density

≈ 0.85 g/cm³ at 20 °C

Iodine value

about 85–95

Solubility

practically insoluble in water; miscible with ethanol (96%) and light petroleum

The double bond makes it susceptible to oxidation on exposure to air and light; antioxidants may be added. Store in an airtight container, protected from light, in a cool place.

Incompatible with strong oxidising agents.

Produced by selective hydrogenation of oleic acid esters (for example methyl oleate) that leaves the double bond intact, or by reduction with sodium, followed by distillation.

Generally regarded as having low toxicity; mild skin irritation and, rarely, sensitisation have been reported, particularly in penetration-enhanced formulations.

Observe normal precautions for the quantity handled. Eye protection and gloves are recommended; spills are slippery and should be cleaned up promptly.

Included in the FDA Inactive Ingredient Database (topical and transdermal preparations) and in non-parenteral medicines licensed in Europe.

Oleic acid; octyldodecanol; cetyl alcohol; cetostearyl alcohol; oleyl oleate.

Its unsaturated chain disorders stratum corneum lipids, which underlies its penetration-enhancing effect; peroxide value and colour should be monitored on storage.