Barrier & Lipid ·
Oleic Acid
What is it?
An omega-9 fatty acid common in plant oils, used in skincare both as an emollient and as a penetration enhancer for other actives.
What does it do?
Commonly used as an emollient and permeation enhancer. According to PubMed, a study developing a polarity-induced ceramide liposome delivery system found oleic acid worked synergistically with ceramide and lecithin to disrupt stratum corneum lipid structure and increase membrane fluidity, significantly enhancing skin delivery of active ingredients in both in vitro and clinical testing -- real evidence for oleic acid's penetration-enhancing mechanism, distinct from claims about oleic acid as a standalone moisturizing ingredient.
Local suppliers (Coming soon)
We're building a directory of South African suppliers and manufacturers who stock this ingredient — check back soon.
Sources
This page provides general skincare information and is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Ingredient interactions and evidence summaries reflect published, cited sources — not a personal assessment of your skin. For medical skin conditions, rashes, pregnancy/lactation questions or persistent concerns, please consult a licensed dermatologist or HPCSA-registered practitioner.