Linoleic Acid

Synonyms: Emersol 310; Emersol 315; leinoleic acid; 9-cis,12-cis-linoleic acid; 9,12-linoleic acid; linolic acid; cis,cis-9,12-octadecadienoic acid; Pamolyn; Polylin No. 515; telfairic acid.

Description: Linoleic acid occurs as a colorless to light-yellow-colored oil. 

Chemical Name:  (Z,Z)-9,12-Octadecadienoic acid

Dietary supplement; emulsifying agent; skin penetrant.

• Linoleic acid is used in topical transdermal formulations, in oral formulations as an absorption enhancer, and in topical cosmetic formulations as an emulsifying agent, and in aqueous microemulsions.

• It is also used in parenteral emulsions for total parenteral nutrition and in nonprescription oral dietary supplements.

Linoleic acid is incompatible with bases, strong oxidizing agents, and reducing agents.

Linoleic acid is widely used in cosmetics and topical pharmaceutical formulations, and is generally regarded as a nontoxic material. On exposure to the eyes, skin, and mucous membranes, linoleic acid can cause mild irritation.

Observe normal precautions appropriate to the circumstances and quantity of material handled. Gloves and eye protection are recommended.

Ethyl linoleate; methyl linoleate.