What it is
Glyceryl undecylenate is a monoester formed from glycerin and undecylenic acid, a fatty acid. In formulas it acts as a skin-conditioning emollient and contributes to antimicrobial protection, making it useful in preservative-light and natural-positioned products. It is often combined with other mild antimicrobial agents to help keep formulations stable.
Safety & warnings
Glyceryl undecylenate is generally well tolerated and is frequently chosen for formulas marketed as gentle. It is not considered a notable irritant or sensitizer at typical use levels.
Origin & sourcing
Synthetic ester produced by combining glycerin with undecylenic acid; undecylenic acid is commonly derived from castor oil.
Questions everyone asks
Why is glyceryl undecylenate added to sunscreen?
It conditions the skin as an emollient and helps support the product's microbial stability, often working alongside other preservation aids.
Is glyceryl undecylenate natural?
It is a synthesized ester, but it is made from glycerin and undecylenic acid that is commonly derived from castor oil.