Common Name(s): Soybean oil,glycine max seed oil,soya oil
CAS Number: 8001-22-7
DESCRIPTION
What It Does: Softens and nourishes skin with a lightweight, non-greasy feel; helps support skin barrier.
Why It's Used: Soybean oil's high linoleic acid (c18:2, 50-55%) content mirrors the skin's natural barrier lipid profile, making it particularly effective for supporting barrier integrity in dry and compromised skin.
How It Works: High linoleic acid (c18:2 omega-6) content replenishes skin barrier lipids; oleic acid (c18:1, ~23%) provides emolliency; natural tocopherols provide antioxidant stability; phytosterols contribute mild barrier support.
Typically Found In: Moisturizing body lotions,dry skin care,barrier repair formulas,natural skin care
TECHNICAL DETAILS
Primary Category: Functional ingredient – emollient
Secondary Functions: Skin conditioning,antioxidant,barrier support
Application Areas:
Facial Skincare
Body Care
Hair Care
Beard Care
Color Cosmetics (Makeup)
Dietary/Oral Supplements
Typical Concentration Range: 0.5%–30%
SOURCING & ETHICS
Vegan Status: Conditional - feedstock declaration required
Halal Status: Unverified - feedstock declaration required (plant, animal and petrochemical routes all exist)
Source Notes: Expressed from glycine max (soybean) seeds; widely available plant oil. [audit 2026-07-29 rev2: origin-dependent: the same inci exists in plant, animal and petrochemical versions and the name does not discriminate. determination requires shariah-panel sign-off.]
SKIN COMPATIBILITY
Irritancy Rating: 1/5 – very low
Comedogenicity Rating: 2/5 – low-moderate; linoleic-rich oils are generally low-comedogenic
Sensitivity Concerns: Generally well tolerated; rare soy/legume allergy possible.
Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes
SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY
Safety Profile: Excellent safety profile. ewg score: 1.
Works Well With: Other plant oils,humectants,vitamin e,emulsifiers
Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities; prone to oxidation — formulate with antioxidants
SCIENTIFIC NOTE
Glycine max (soybean) oil has one of the highest linoleic acid contents of common carrier oils (50-55%); high pufa content means it is prone to oxidation; typically stabilized with tocopherols; widely used as an affordable, sustainable emollient with a favorable fatty acid profile for skin barrier support.
Last Verified: 2026-03-28
Primary Sources: Cosing database,inci dictionary,cir safety assessment