What is Tocopheryl Linoleate?
Tocopheryl Linoleate, also known as 9,12-Octadecadienoic acid (Z,Z)-, 3,4-dihydro-2,5,7,8-tetramethyl-2-(4,8,12-trimethyltridecyl)-2H-1-benzopyran-6-yl ester, is a derivative of Vitamin E and Linoleic acid. It’s a complex ester formed from the reaction of these two components. Linoleic acid is an essential fatty acid, while Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin, both of which are naturally occurring in many foods and oils.
The use of Tocopheryl Linoleate in cosmetics can be traced back to the 1980s when it was first recognized for its skin conditioning and antioxidant properties. It was during this time that the cosmetic industry began to understand the importance of antioxidants in skincare, leading to the incorporation of ingredients like Tocopheryl Linoleate in various formulations.
The production of Tocopheryl Linoleate involves a chemical reaction between Vitamin E and Linoleic acid. This process results in a stable, oil-soluble compound that is easily incorporated into a wide range of cosmetic products.
While Tocopheryl Linoleate shares similarities with other Vitamin E derivatives used in cosmetics, such as Tocopheryl Acetate and Tocopheryl Palmitate, it stands out due to its unique combination with Linoleic acid. This combination enhances the antioxidant and skin conditioning properties of the ingredient, making it a preferred choice for many formulations.
Tocopheryl Linoleate is typically used in a variety of cosmetic products including moisturizers, serums, sunscreens, and anti-aging treatments. Its antioxidant properties help to protect the skin from environmental stressors, while its skin conditioning abilities contribute to a smoother, softer skin texture. Furthermore, its skin protecting function aids in maintaining the skin’s natural barrier, making it a versatile ingredient in the world of cosmetics.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Tocopheryl Linoleate:
Antioxidant Properties
Tocopheryl Linoleate is known for its antioxidant properties. In simple terms, antioxidants are substances that help protect our skin cells from damage. They do this by neutralizing harmful molecules known as free radicals, which are produced in our skin as a result of exposure to environmental stressors like pollution and UV rays. By neutralizing these free radicals, Tocopheryl Linoleate helps to maintain the health and vitality of our skin, keeping it looking youthful and radiant.
Skin Conditioning
Another key benefit of Tocopheryl Linoleate is its skin conditioning properties. As a skin conditioner, it helps to make the skin feel smoother, softer, and more supple. It achieves this by helping to maintain the skin’s natural moisture balance, preventing dryness and flaking. This makes Tocopheryl Linoleate a valuable ingredient in many moisturizers, lotions, and other skincare products designed to hydrate and nourish the skin.
Skin Protecting
Tocopheryl Linoleate also serves a protective function for the skin. It forms a barrier on the skin’s surface that helps to shield it from environmental damage. This includes protection from harmful UV rays, pollution, and other external factors that can cause skin damage. By providing this protective barrier, Tocopheryl Linoleate helps to keep the skin healthy and resilient, reducing the risk of premature aging and other skin issues.
Please note that the benefits listed above are based exclusively on the officially recognized and defined functions of Tocopheryl Linoleate. There may be other potential benefits and uses of this ingredient that go beyond the scope of its official functions. However, these additional benefits are not officially recognized and therefore are not discussed in this article.
Safety Profile
Tocopheryl Linoleate is not a banned or regulated ingredient in cosmetics. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic products. However, as with any ingredient, individual reactions can vary and it is always recommended to do a patch test before using a new product widely.
As an antioxidant and skin conditioning agent, Tocopheryl Linoleate is generally well-tolerated by the skin. However, potential side effects of topical application may include:
- Minor skin irritation
- Allergic reactions in individuals with sensitivity to Vitamin E or related compounds
A note for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding – there is currently insufficient data on the safety of topical use of Tocopheryl Linoleate during pregnancy or breastfeeding. As such, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for further advice.
Adverse reactions to Tocopheryl Linoleate are not common, but as with any cosmetic ingredient, individual reactions can vary. It is always recommended to do a patch test before using a new product widely.
This ingredient analysis has been commissioned by Truth In Skincare (TiS), an independent industry regulator. The analysis was conducted by a TiS-appointed industry consultant, using sources including the CosIng (Cosmetic Ingredient Database – by the European Commission), the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA), as well as other various publicly available sources.
