Ethoxylated castor oil (CAS 61791-12-6) — Citrus None Note Fragrance Ingredient
Ethoxylated castor oil
CAS 61791-12-6
What Is Ethoxylated castor oil?
Ethoxylated castor oil is a synthetic derivative used as a solubilizer and emollient in fragrances and cosmetics. It helps blend water-insoluble ingredients into formulations. Consumers encounter it in fine fragrances, body lotions, and hair care products where it enhances texture and longevity. This ingredient matters because it enables the stable incorporation of hydrophobic fragrance oils into water-based products, improving performance without altering scent profiles.
Safety Profile
GENERALLY SAFEWhat Does Ethoxylated castor oil Smell Like?
Ethoxylated castor oil is odorless, serving purely as a functional ingredient in fragrance formulations. It acts as a silent carrier, allowing other aromatic compounds to shine without contributing its own scent profile. Its role is structural rather than olfactory, ensuring smooth blending and stability across top, heart, and base notes.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Ethoxylated castor oil is produced by reacting castor oil with ethylene oxide, introducing ethoxylate groups to the triglyceride structure. This process increases hydrophilicity while maintaining some lipophilic character, making it an effective non-ionic surfactant. The degree of ethoxylation varies, affecting solubility and emulsifying properties.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Appearance | Clear to pale yellow liquid |
|---|---|
| Solubility | Water-soluble |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 1-5% | Up to 10% | Solubilizer for hydrophobic compounds |
| Body Lotions | 2-8% | Up to 15% | Emollient and fragrance carrier |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use to solubilize essential oils in aqueous formulations without cloudiness.
Alternatives & Comparisons
Another non-ionic surfactant with similar solubilizing properties but different HLB balance.
Higher ethoxylation degree for increased water solubility in clear formulations.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
Not restricted by IFRA. Generally recognized as safe for use in fragrance applications.
RIFM Assessment
RIFM has no specific restrictions on ethoxylated castor oil in fragrance applications.
Sustainability
Synthesized from renewable castor oil, making it more sustainable than petroleum-derived surfactants. The ethoxylation process requires careful control to minimize ethylene oxide residuals. Biodegradability varies with degree of ethoxylation.
Explore Ethoxylated castor oil
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References
- PubChem. Ethoxylated castor oil. PubChem
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review. Safety Assessment of Ethoxylated Castor Oils. CIR
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
Report a data errorIngredient Data Sheet
CAS 61791-12-6Physical data: PubChem (NIH/NLM), U.S. EPA CompTox Dashboard, EPA OPERA models, RDKit. Odor & flavor: Arctander (Perfume & Flavor Chemicals), Fenaroli's Handbook of Flavor Ingredients, Leffingwell. Thresholds: van Gemert (Compilations of Odour Threshold Values). Regulatory: IFRA Standards 51st, FEMA GRAS. Trade names: Surburg (Common Fragrance & Flavor Materials). All data compiled and cross-referenced for perfumertools.com.
