Propylene glycol oleate (inci)

Propylene glycol (1,2-propanediol)" refers to a dihydric alcohol which, due to its chemical and physical properties, is widely used in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and technology both as a monosubstance and as a component of an ester; "oleate" refers to the ester of the "oleic acid" of a carboxylic acid.

Propylene glycol oleate is used in cosmetic formulations. The substance acts as an emollient (makes the skin smooth and supple) and as an emulsifier (a surface-active substance which is used in cosmetic products as an auxiliary agent to combine two immiscible liquids - e.g. oil and water - to form an emulsion).