Propylene glycol oleate se (inci)

Propylene glycol (1,2-propanediol)" refers to a dihydric alcohol which, due to its chemical and physical properties, is widely used in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and technology both as a monosubstance and as a component of an ester; "oleate" refers to the ester of the "oleic acid" of a carboxylic acid. The addition SE means "self-emulsifying" and characterizes the emulsifying properties of the product, which are chemically produced by adding alkali or potassium stearate (depending on the manufacturer).

Propylene glycol oleate SE is used in cosmetic formulations. The substance acts as an emulsifier (surface-active substance which is used in cosmetic products as an auxiliary agent to combine 2 immiscible liquids - e.g. oil and water - to form an emulsion) and as an opacifier.