What it is
Hydrogenated Rapeseed Oil is produced by adding hydrogen to rapeseed (canola) oil, converting its unsaturated fatty acids into a more saturated, oxidatively stable, semi-solid material. In formulas it acts as an emollient that softens and smooths the skin while also helping to thicken and stabilize products such as sun sticks and balms. Its waxy consistency makes it useful for giving anhydrous and stick formulations their structure.
Safety & warnings
Hydrogenated rapeseed oil is generally well tolerated as a skin emollient. Like other rich plant-derived oils, it may have some pore-clogging potential for those very prone to congestion, though it is often used in stick products where this is a consideration.
Origin & sourcing
Derived from rapeseed (canola) plant oil that has undergone industrial hydrogenation.
Questions everyone asks
Why is rapeseed oil hydrogenated for cosmetics?
Hydrogenation makes the oil more saturated, stable, and semi-solid, which improves shelf stability and provides structure to sticks and balms.
What does it do in a sun stick?
It works as an emollient and a structuring agent, softening skin while helping give the stick its firm, solid consistency.