Phytosteryl Oleate

Phytosteryl Oleate is an ester formed from plant sterols and oleic acid. It gives a lubricious, conditioning feel, improves spread, and boosts richness in creams, sticks, and sunscreens.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
A rich plant-based emollient that relieves dryness and softens skin.
Category
Skin Conditioning, Barrier Support, Hydration
Type
Emollient

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Good

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Provides rich conditioning that helps relieve dryness and improves skin comfort. Contributes to a supple, nurtured feel on very dry areas.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Included in facial moisturizers, balm sticks, and SPF lotions to create a creamy glide and cushioned finish. Also used in ointment-style balms for added richness.

Comedogenic Rating

This ingredient is not typically evaluated for comedogenicity, and no standardized rating is available.

Safety

Usually well tolerated, but the richer oleate profile may not suit very acne-prone skin; consider patch testing. No widely recognized cosmetic regulatory restrictions for this ingredient.

Is Phytosteryl Oleate a Good Ingredient?

Rated Good for its rich, lubricious conditioning and improved spread, with solid formulation utility but limited clinical data. As an oleic-acid-based ester, it’s effective for dryness yet may feel heavy on very oily or breakout-prone skin.