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Cetearyl Olivate

Cetearyl Olivate — a natural emulsifier and emollient derived from olive oil. Part of the Olivem 1000 duo (together with sorbitan olivate), which forms soft, eco-friendly emulsions with a creamy texture without the need for synthetic surfactants.

natural emulsifierolive oilsoft textureeco-friendly formula
✓ Safe
Comedogenic Rating
0/5
Irritation Potential
0/5

What is it?

Cetearyl Olivate (INCI: Cetearyl Olivate) — an ester formed by the esterification of cetearyl alcohol with fatty acids derived from olive oil (mainly oleic acid). Mechanism: dual function — emulsifying (stabilizing the oil-water interface) and emollient (softening and nourishing the skin). The molecular structure resembles natural lipids of the skin barrier, promoting better compatibility and a soft sensory quality of the formula.

Natural and organic cosmetics, cream emulsions for dry and sensitive skin, baby cosmetics, formulas with a minimalist ingredient list (clean beauty).

Key Benefits

✦
Natural emulsifier without synthetic surfactants
Cetearyl olivate in combination with sorbitan olivate forms a stable lamellar emulsion structure that resembles the natural lipid barrier of the skin (similar to intercellular lipids of the stratum corneum). Mechanism: the lamellar structure retains moisture better and provides a more stable, eco-friendly alternative to traditional synthetic emulsifiers (PEG derivatives, silicone surfactants). This makes it a popular choice in natural and organic cosmetics certified to Ecocert/COSMOS standards.
◈
Softening and nourishing the skin
Due to its origin from olive oil, cetearyl olivate provides nourishing, emollient action, softening the skin and improving its elasticity. Mechanism: the fatty acid profile (mainly oleic acid) is well compatible with skin lipids, ensuring easy penetration and hydration without a heavy greasy film. Result: a soft, silky texture of the final product, suitable even for very sensitive and dry skin.
✧
Emulsion stability over a wide pH range
The lamellar structure formed by cetearyl olivate provides high emulsion stability over a wide pH and temperature range, which is especially valuable for formulas with active acids (AHA, vitamin C) or natural preservatives with specific pH requirements. Often combined with: sorbitan olivate (Olivem 1000 complex) to achieve maximum stability and eco-friendly profile of the formula.

Suitable for

dry and sensitive skinall skin types in natural formulas

Main Actions

✓ natural emulsification without synthetic surfactants✓ softening of the skin✓ emulsion stability over a wide pH
Cetearyl Olivate: Olivem 1000 complex

Cetearyl olivate is rarely used alone — typically in combination with sorbitan olivate (commercial name Olivem 1000), which provides optimal emulsifying function. INCI: Cetearyl Olivate (+ Sorbitan Olivate). Concentration: 3-7% in the emulsion. Suitable for certified natural and organic cosmetics.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Cetearyl Olivate do for skin?
Natural and organic cosmetics, cream emulsions for dry and sensitive skin, baby cosmetics, formulas with a minimalist ingredient list (clean beauty).
Who should use Cetearyl Olivate?
Cetearyl Olivate is suitable for: dry and sensitive skin, all skin types in natural formulas.
Are there any warnings about Cetearyl Olivate?
Cetearyl olivate is rarely used alone — typically in combination with sorbitan olivate (commercial name Olivem 1000), which provides optimal emulsifying function. INCI: Cetearyl Olivate (+ Sorbitan Olivate). Concentration: 3-7% in the emulsion. Suitable for certified natural and

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