What it is
Linolenic acid is an essential polyunsaturated fatty acid found in many plant oils, such as flaxseed and perilla oil. In skincare it functions as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent that helps soften skin and support the lipid composition of a comfortable skin surface. In sunscreens it is typically present as part of a botanical oil or added directly at low levels for conditioning.
Safety & warnings
Linolenic acid is generally well tolerated and considered low on the comedogenic scale. Because it is a polyunsaturated fatty acid, it is prone to oxidation, so well-formulated products pair it with antioxidants to maintain stability.
Origin & sourcing
Linolenic acid is a naturally occurring fatty acid obtained primarily from plant oils, and can also be purified from those sources for cosmetic use.
Questions everyone asks
What is linolenic acid?
It is an omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid found in plant oils like flaxseed and perilla, used to soften and condition skin.
Does linolenic acid clog pores?
It is generally considered low on the comedogenic scale, though as a polyunsaturated fatty acid it benefits from antioxidant protection against oxidation.