Oleic Acid Monoglyceride: The "Hidden Gem" of the Daily Chemical Industry—How Is It Unlocking a Trillion-Yuan Market?
Sep 17,2025
In the ingredient list of cosmetics, Glyceryl Monooleate (GMO) may not immediately catch the eye, but this seemingly ordinary emulsifier is quietly emerging as an "unsung hero" in skincare, personal care—and even color cosmetics. As the global trend toward natural ingredients gains momentum, this versatile ingredient, which combines both efficacy and safety, is now crafting a new market success story.
I. The "Dark Horse" on the Trillion-Yuan Track: Oleic Acid Monoglyceride Breaks Through in the Market
According to MarketsandMarkets data, the global emulsifier market surpassed US$8 billion in 2023, with oleic acid monoglyceride leading the Asia-Pacific region at a robust annual growth rate of 6.8% due to its unique properties. Behind this "dark horse's" rise are three major trends driving its remarkable momentum:
· The Clean Beauty Revolution : In Clean Beauty product lines launched by giants such as L'Oréal and Shiseido, the usage rate of oleic acid monoglyceride—as a naturally derived emulsifier—has increased by 42%.
· Essential Skincare for Optimal Benefits Its technological advantages in areas such as permeation enhancement and sustained release have led to a surge in its application in high-value-added products like spot-removal and anti-aging formulations.
· The sinking market is booming. : The number of cases where local brands have replaced traditional SLS surfactants in everyday consumer products such as body washes and shampoos has tripled.
2. From Basic Emulsification to Function-Powered Innovation: Unlocking Six Key Application Scenarios
This small molecule, with a molecular weight of less than 400, is pushing the boundaries of conventional understanding:
1. Skincare field You are a helpful assistant.
As an "intelligent delivery vehicle," it can boost the penetration efficiency of active ingredients by 2 to 3 times (XX brand's lyophilized serum utilizes supramolecular encapsulation technology, achieving a 98.7% transdermal penetration rate).
2. Hair Care & Wash Products You are a helpful assistant.
Combined with cationic conditioners, it creates an "emulsion-like texture in shampoo" (a popular domestic-brand shampoo boasts a repurchase rate as high as 73%).
3. Cosmetic Innovation You are a helpful assistant.
Achieve a delicate balance of oil control and hydration in long-wear foundation formulas, solving the persistent issue of "oily on the outside, dry on the inside."
4. Infant and Child Care You are a helpful assistant.
With its gentle, ISO-certified properties, it serves as the core matrix for the tear-free formula.
5. Green Washing You are a helpful assistant.
Replacing petrochemical-based surfactants, this product achieves a biodegradation rate of 99.2%.
6. New formulation development You are a helpful assistant.
Drive texture innovation in popular product categories such as essence oils and cleansing balms.
3. Technological Breakthrough: From Lab to Production Line
Industry leaders are reshaping the competitive landscape through technological innovation:
· Functional Modification Technology You are a helpful assistant.
The acid-resistant GMO, developed via transesterification, remains stable within a pH range of 3 to 11.
· Intelligent Delivery System You are a helpful assistant.
Achieving a 48-hour sustained-release effect through the liquid crystalline structure formed with ceramides.
4. Conclusion
As the "ingredient enthusiasts" start paying attention to every detail of INCI lists, and as regulatory red lines compel formula upgrades, oleic acid monoglyceride is quietly stepping into the spotlight. In this era where technology reigns supreme, Kaiwen The group leverages its stable, high-quality products to help the brand seize the next technological advantage.
Kaiwen Oleic Acid Monoglyceride (Glycerol Oleate)
This year at the PCHI exhibition, Kaiwen Group’s newly launched product—oleic acid monoglyceride—has garnered significant attention, drawing numerous visitors to stop and inquire about it. Produced by Guangdong Kaiwen Biotechnology Co., Ltd., the oleic acid monoglyceride appears as a white to pale yellow liquid or paste-like solid, boasting excellent emulsifying, thickening, and defoaming properties. It is ideally suited for formulating cream-based skincare products and cosmetics. In an era where technology reigns supreme, Kaiwen Group remains committed to delivering stable, high-quality products that empower brands to seize the next technological frontier.
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