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Zinc Ricinoleate Powder
Chemical Name: Zinc bis[(R)-12-hydroxy-9-octadecenoate]
INCI Name: Zinc Ricinoleate
Molecular Formula: C₃₆H₆₆O₆Zn
Key Properties
Appearance: Off-white to beige powder or granules
Odor: Faint fatty scent
Solubility: Insoluble in water; dispersible in oils and emulsions
Melting Point: ~80–85 °C
pH (in dispersion): Neutral to slightly alkaline
Function: Odor absorber / deodorizing agent
Zinc ricinoleate is the zinc salt of ricinoleic acid, a monounsaturated fatty acid derived predominantly from castor oil (Ricinus communis). In powder form, it appears as an off-white to beige, free-flowing substance and is highly valued for its powerful odor-absorbing properties. It is commonly used in deodorant formulations, air-freshening products, and odor-neutralizing applications, both in personal care and household products.
Unlike typical deodorant actives that inhibit bacterial growth or mask odor with fragrance, zinc ricinoleate chemically traps and binds odor molecules (e.g., volatile sulfur compounds and amines), rendering them odorless. This makes it particularly effective for neutralizing body odor without interfering with the skin’s natural microbiome.
How to Use
Formulation Guidelines:
Typical Usage Rate: 1–5% (most effective at 2–3% in deodorants)
Phase: Oil phase (lipid-soluble; add to oils before emulsification)
Processing:
Heat the oil phase to 80–85 °C.
Add Zinc Ricinoleate and stir until fully dissolved/dispersed.
Combine with water phase during emulsification.
Compatibility: Works well in emulsions, sticks, and anhydrous products; not water-soluble, so requires emulsifiers or solubilizers for aqueous systems.
Pro Tip: Pair with a mild antimicrobial (e.g., triethyl citrate) for extended odor protection without blocking sweat.
Functions & Applications
Primary Functions
Odor Absorber – Binds and neutralizes odor molecules such as volatile sulfur compounds and amines.
Deodorizing Agent – Controls odor without masking or inhibiting perspiration.
Fragrance Enhancer – Improves fragrance performance by removing background malodors.
Applications
Personal Care Products
Natural deodorants (creams, sticks, roll-ons)
Foot care sprays and powders
Pet care deodorizing products
Household Products
Carpet and fabric deodorizers
Air fresheners and odor neutralizing gels
Garbage bin and litter box fresheners
Industrial & Specialty Uses
Odor control in textiles and sportswear treatments
Odor management in specialty coatings or sealants
Common Uses in Formulations
2–3% in cream or stick deodorants for daily wear
1–2% in pet grooming sprays to neutralize lingering smells
2–4% in household odor-control powders for garbage bins, carpets, or litter boxes
<1% in air freshener emulsions to remove unwanted base odors before adding fragrance
Substitution Chart
Ingredient | Best For | Notes |
Cyclodextrins | Water-based sprays, serums, gels | Encapsulates odor molecules; fully water-soluble; great for clear deodorants. |
Activated Charcoal Powder | Anhydrous balms, powders | Adsorbs odor and impurities; may discolor products. |
Zeolites | Sticks, powders | Mineral odor absorber; also controls moisture. |
Bamboo Charcoal | Natural deodorants, scrubs | Mild odor control with visual appeal in dark-colored formulas. |
Triethyl Citrate | Emulsions, sprays | Reduces odor formation by inhibiting enzymatic breakdown of sweat. |
Silver Zeolite / Silver Citrate | High-performance deodorants | Combines antimicrobial and odor absorption; more expensive. |
Functional Substitutes & Alternatives (Based on Use Case)
Primary Function: Odor absorber / odor neutralizer
1. Direct Functional Alternatives
Cyclodextrins – Naturally derived carbohydrate molecules that encapsulate and trap odor-causing molecules; water soluble and suitable for aqueous systems.
Activated Charcoal (Powder) – Adsorbs a wide range of odor-causing compounds; ideal for dry or anhydrous formulations but may cause discoloration.
Zeolites – Microporous aluminosilicates with excellent odor and moisture adsorption properties; often used in powders and solid deodorants.
2. Combined Odor Control & Antimicrobial Action
Triethyl Citrate – Inhibits enzymatic breakdown of sweat, reducing odor formation; often used alongside zinc ricinoleate.
Silver Zeolite / Silver Citrate – Offers both antimicrobial activity and odor reduction.
Bamboo Powder (Bamboo Charcoal) – Natural odor control with mild antimicrobial benefits.
3. Botanical & Natural Deodorant Alternatives
Saccharomyces Ferment Filtrate – Fermentation filtrate that reduces odor by altering bacterial metabolism.
Witch Hazel Extract – Mild astringent with odor-neutralizing properties.
Essential Oils (Tea Tree, Sage, Rosemary) – Provide masking fragrance and light antimicrobial action, though less potent in odor absorption.
4. Use Considerations
Aqueous Formulations: Cyclodextrins or soluble zinc salts may be preferable.
Anhydrous Balms & Sticks: Activated charcoal, bamboo charcoal, or zeolites integrate well.
Sensitive Skin: Choose mild, non-irritating options like cyclodextrins or triethyl citrate.
Safety & Regulatory Notes
Approved for cosmetic use in the EU and other major markets.
Low skin irritation potential; suitable for sensitive formulations.
As with all raw materials, ensure compliance with local cosmetic regulations.