Linoleic Acid

What is it?

Linoleic acid is an essential fatty acid belonging to the omega-6 family, which the human body cannot produce on its own. It is naturally found in many vegetable oils, first of all linseed oil, but also sunflower, borage, evening primrose, and hemp oil, and is a key component of the skin’s lipid barrier.

What does it do in cosmetics?

Thanks to its strong affinity with the skin’s structure, linoleic acid offers multiple cosmetic benefits, especially for dry, sensitive, inflamed, or acne-prone skin:

Strengthens the skin barrier: helps repair and maintain the integrity of the stratum corneum, improving the skin’s ability to retain moisture.

Moisturizing and elasticity-boosting: enhances softness and elasticity, leaving the skin visibly healthier.

Soothing and anti-inflammatory: ideal for redness, dermatitis, or irritation, thanks to its calming action.

Sebum-regulating: in oily or blemish-prone skin, it helps balance sebum production and prevents pore clogging.

Antioxidant: protects the skin from oxidative stress and free radical damage, helping to prevent premature aging.

Fun fact

Linoleic acid is one of the core components of the Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF) and is often present in pure plant oils and functional active ingredients used in natural cosmetics. A deficiency in linoleic acid in the skin is associated with dryness, flaking, and increased sensitivity.