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Olivem 1000 is a natural, PEG-free emulsifier derived from olive oil fatty acids, designed for creating stable oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions. It imparts a smooth, luxurious texture and supports skin barrier repair through its biomimetic lipid profile. Popular in natural and organic formulations, Olivem 1000 is valued for its mildness, skin compatibility, and versatility in creams, lotions, and hair care products.
INCI Name: Cetearyl Olivate (and) Sorbitan Olivate
Chemical Nature: Non-ionic blend of fatty acid esters of cetearyl alcohol and sorbitan esterified with olive oil fatty acids
CAS Numbers:
Cetearyl Olivate: 85666-92-8
Sorbitan Olivate: 1338-43-8
EINECS Numbers:
Cetearyl Olivate: 287-064-4
Sorbitan Olivate: 215-663-3
Synonyms: Olive-based emulsifying wax, Olive oil-derived emulsifier
Physical and Chemical Properties
Property | Value |
Appearance | White to off-white waxy flakes or pellets |
Melting Point | ~70–75 °C (158–167 °F) |
Solubility | Insoluble in water; dispersible in oils and emulsions |
Odor | Mild, neutral |
pH (in 10% solution) | ~5–7 |
Usage Guidelines
Typical Usage Rate:
Lotions: 3–5%
Creams & Butters: 5–8%
High-Oil Formulas: Up to ~30% oil phase with proper adjustments
Processing:
Heat oil phase (with Olivem 1000) and water phase separately to ~75 °C.
Combine under moderate to high shear until emulsified.
Cool with gentle stirring to avoid aeration.
Add heat-sensitive ingredients below 40 °C.
Phase: Oil phase (lipid-soluble; must be melted)
pH Stability: Works in formulations from pH 3–12.
Formulator Tips:
Add a fatty alcohol (cetyl or cetearyl) for thicker textures.
Combine with a low-viscosity natural emulsifier for lighter lotions.
Compatible with vegetable oils and silicones.
Source and Production
Produced by esterifying cetearyl alcohol and sorbitan with olive oil-derived fatty acids, creating a self-emulsifying, biomimetic wax that mimics skin’s natural lipid composition, enhancing moisture retention and barrier function.
Functions and Applications
Primary Functions:
Emulsifier – Forms stable O/W emulsions without PEGs.
Moisturizing Agent – Improves hydration through lipid replenishment.
Sensory Modifier – Provides smooth, non-greasy skin feel.
Skin Conditioning Agent – Enhances barrier repair.
Applications:
Face creams, serums, and lotions
Body creams, lotions, and butters
Hair conditioners and leave-ins
Baby care and sensitive-skin products
ECOCERT/COSMOS-approved natural formulations
Substitution Chart
If You Don’t Have Olivem 1000 | Best For | Notes |
Montanov 68 | Natural/organic creams and lotions | Similar performance; slightly creamier texture. |
Ritamulse SCG | Eco-certified, lighter emulsions | Produces lighter feel; pH sensitive (5–7). |
Vegetal (Glyceryl Stearate Citrate) | Natural O/W emulsions | Requires co-emulsifier for high oil loads. |
Polawax / Emulsifying Wax NF | Stable, versatile emulsions | Not PEG-free; more conventional. |
Glyceryl Stearate SE | Rich creams and butters | Requires stabilizer; slightly waxier feel. |
Alternatives
Alternative | Notes |
Montanov 68 / Montanov 202 | Natural emulsifiers from sugar and fatty alcohols; similar feel, different viscosity. |
Polawax / Emulsifying Wax NF | Reliable but not olive-derived or PEG-free. |
Glyceryl Stearate (and) Cetearyl Alcohol | Requires co-emulsifier; produces thicker creams. |
Ritamulse SCG | Natural emulsifier blend with lighter texture. |
Safety and Regulatory Status
PEG-free, non-ionic emulsifier suitable for natural formulations.
Low irritation potential, even for sensitive skin.
Approved globally for use in leave-on and rinse-off cosmetics.
Environmental and Sustainability Considerations
Derived from renewable olive oil sources.
Biodegradable.
Available from ECOCERT/COSMOS-certified suppliers.