Ingredient review
Olive-Derived Amino Lipid
INCI: Bis-C24-28 Hydroxyalkyl OlivoYL Glutamate
A mild, olive-derived emulsifier that helps create stable, creamy textures while being very gentle on skin.
In plain English
This ingredient is a modified version of a natural amino acid found in olive oil. It acts like a bridge between oil and water, allowing them to mix into a smooth cream or lotion. Because it comes from a plant source and is processed to be very mild, it's often used in gentle, non-irritating skincare products.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- semi synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Olive-Derived Amino Lipid is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Olive-Derived Amino Lipid.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
A semi-synthetic compound made by combining long-chain fatty alcohols (derived from olive oil) with glutamic acid (an amino acid). The result is a molecule that has both water-loving and oil-loving parts, making it an effective emulsifier.
How it works
When added to a formula, it positions itself at the boundary between oil droplets and water, reducing surface tension so the two phases stay mixed. This creates a stable, uniform emulsion that feels smooth and creamy on the skin. It also has mild skin-conditioning properties, helping to leave skin feeling soft.
Pros
Very gentle on skin
Derived from olive oil and an amino acid, this emulsifier has a very low irritation risk, making it ideal for sensitive skin formulas.
Environmentally friendly
It is plant-derived and biodegradable, appealing to consumers looking for sustainable skincare ingredients.
Cons and cautions
Limited pH tolerance
It may not perform well in very acidic formulas (pH below 4), which could limit its use in certain exfoliating products.
Higher cost
As a specialty, semi-synthetic ingredient, it can be more expensive than conventional emulsifiers like cetearyl alcohol.
Best for
- People with sensitive or reactive skin
- Anyone looking for a gentle, plant-based emulsifier in their skincare
Use caution if
- Those with known olive oil allergy (rare)
- Formulators working with extremely acidic products
Usage tips
Safety summary
Considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. Low irritation and sensitization potential. No known significant safety concerns.
Research notes
Limited peer-reviewed studies specifically on this ingredient, but it is structurally similar to other well-studied amino acid-based emulsifiers that are known to be mild and safe. Safety assessments by cosmetic ingredient review panels support its use.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and most major markets. No specific restrictions.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Cleansers, Serums, Sunscreens
- Environmental note
- Derived from renewable olive oil sources and is biodegradable, making it a more sustainable choice compared to some petroleum-based emulsifiers.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often listed as 'Bis-C24-28 Hydroxyalkyl OlivoYL Glutamate' on labels, but it's simply a modified olive oil derivative.
- It is not the same as pure olive oil; it's a processed ingredient designed for emulsification.
Common questions
What is Olive-Derived Amino Lipid in beauty products?
This ingredient is a modified version of a natural amino acid found in olive oil. It acts like a bridge between oil and water, allowing them to mix into a smooth cream or lotion. Because it comes from a plant source and is processed to be very mild, it's often used in gentle, non-irritating skincare products.
What does Olive-Derived Amino Lipid do in a beauty product?
When added to a formula, it positions itself at the boundary between oil droplets and water, reducing surface tension so the two phases stay mixed. This creates a stable, uniform emulsion that feels smooth and creamy on the skin. It also has mild skin-conditioning properties, helping to leave skin feeling soft.
Is Olive-Derived Amino Lipid safe for most people?
Considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. Low irritation and sensitization potential. No known significant safety concerns.
Who should be careful with Olive-Derived Amino Lipid?
Those with known olive oil allergy (rare) Formulators working with extremely acidic products
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.