Glyceryl monooleate (CAS 0111-03-05) — Citrus Non-volatile Note Fragrance Ingredient
Glyceryl monooleate
CAS 0111-03-05
What Is Glyceryl monooleate?
Glyceryl monooleate is a synthetic ingredient primarily used as an emulsifier in cosmetics and skincare products. You’ll find it in lotions, creams, and some hair care formulations where it helps blend oil and water components. While not a traditional fragrance material, it plays a supporting role in product stability and texture.
Safety Profile
GENERALLY SAFEWhat Does Glyceryl monooleate Smell Like?
Glyceryl monooleate is essentially odorless with only a faint, neutral fatty character when pure. As a non-volatile emulsifier, it doesn’t contribute to fragrance profiles but serves as a carrier for scent molecules in cosmetic formulations. Its molecular structure helps stabilize volatile fragrance components without altering their olfactory characteristics.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Glyceryl monooleate is a monoglyceride derived from glycerol and oleic acid. It’s synthesized through esterification reactions, often using enzymatic or chemical catalysis. The molecule features a polar glycerol head group and a nonpolar oleic acid tail, giving it amphiphilic properties essential for its emulsifying function. Commercial grades typically contain mixtures of mono-, di-, and triglycerides.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Appearance | Pale yellow viscous liquid |
|---|---|
| Solubility | Soluble in oils, partially soluble in water |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cosmetic Emulsions | 1-5% | 0.5-10% | Primary emulsifier |
| Fragrance Carrier | 2-8% | 1-15% | Stabilizes volatile components |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use as a base emulsifier to improve fragrance oil solubility in aqueous systems.
Alternatives & Comparisons
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
Not restricted by IFRA – classified as non-fragrance ingredient
RIFM Assessment
Not evaluated by RIFM as it’s not a fragrance material.
Sustainability
Synthesized from renewable sources (glycerol and vegetable-derived oleic acid). Production typically uses green chemistry principles with high atom economy. Biodegradable under normal environmental conditions.
Explore Glyceryl monooleate
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References
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel. (2017). Safety Assessment of Monoglycerides as Used in Cosmetics. CIR Report
- European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) Substance Information ECHA Entry
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
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