Linolenic Acid
A cosmetic ingredient used as antistatic, cleansing, hair conditioning in skincare, haircare, and personal-care products sold in the European Union.
What is it?
9,12,15-Octadecatrienoic acid (9Z, 12Z, 15Z)
What does it do?
Linolenic Acid is listed in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with the following declared functions:
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Antistatic
reduces static electricity, mostly in hair products to keep strands smooth and manageable
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Cleansing
helps remove dirt, oil, makeup, and other contaminants from skin or hair
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Hair conditioning
improves the appearance, feel, and manageability of hair
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Perfuming
adds scent to a cosmetic product
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Skin conditioning
improves the appearance, feel, and condition of skin
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Skin conditioning - emollient
softens the skin by reducing roughness and friction between skin cells
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Surfactant - cleansing
surfactant whose primary cosmetic role is cleansing — the active workhorse in soaps, shampoos, and body washes
EU regulatory status
Linolenic Acid is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the European Union under Regulation 1223/2009. It is not subject to a specific Annex restriction at the time of writing.
Frequently asked questions
What is Linolenic Acid?
Linolenic Acid is a cosmetic ingredient catalogued in the EU CosIng database. 9,12,15-Octadecatrienoic acid (9Z, 12Z, 15Z)
Is Linolenic Acid allowed in cosmetics in the EU?
Yes. Linolenic Acid is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the EU under Regulation 1223/2009.
What does Linolenic Acid do in cosmetic products?
Linolenic Acid is declared in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with these functions: antistatic, cleansing, hair conditioning, perfuming, skin conditioning, skin conditioning - emollient, surfactant - cleansing.
What is the CAS number of Linolenic Acid?
The CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number for Linolenic Acid is 463-40-1 (CIS).
Related ingredients
Source: EU CosIng database (European Commission). This page is derived from public-sector information published by the European Commission. · Last updated: 15/10/2010