Back to Ingredient Dictionary

Common Name(s): Hydrogenated orange roughy oil,orange roughy (hoplostethus atlanticus) fish oil hydrogenated fish oil (saturated) ester

DESCRIPTION

What It Does: Softens and conditions skin with a light, non-greasy feel.

Why It's Used: Used for its deep-sea fish-derived stable emollient; declining use due to fish conservation concerns emollient properties; suitable for lightweight skin care where non-greasy texture is key.

How It Works: Ester of orange roughy (hoplostethus atlanticus) fish oil (branched or specialty alcohol) with hydrogenated fish oil (saturated); branching reduces crystallinity and greasiness; provides smooth, dry-oil skin feel.

Typically Found In: Lightweight moisturizers,sunscreens,skin serums,body lotions

TECHNICAL DETAILS

Primary Category: Functional ingredient – emollient

Secondary Functions: Skin conditioning,texture modification,spreading agent

Application Areas:

Facial Skincare

Body Care

Hair Care

Beard Care

Color Cosmetics (Makeup)

Dietary/Oral Supplements

Typical Concentration Range: 0.5%–10%

SOURCING & ETHICS

Vegan Status: Yes

Halal Status: Yes

Source Notes: Orange roughy (hoplostethus atlanticus) fish oil and hydrogenated fish oil (saturated); plant or synthetic origin.

SKIN COMPATIBILITY

Irritancy Rating: 1/5 – very low

Comedogenicity Rating: 1/5 – low

Sensitivity Concerns: Generally well tolerated.

Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes

SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY

Safety Profile: Good safety profile. ewg score: 1.

Works Well With: Other emollients,silicones,natural oils,humectants

Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities

SCIENTIFIC NOTE

Orange roughy is a deep-sea fish (hoplostethus atlanticus) with extremely long lifespans (150+ years); hydrogenated oil provides stable emolliency; orange roughy populations are severely depleted — use is strongly discouraged.

Last Verified: 2026-03-28

Primary Sources: Cosing database,inci dictionary