Linolenic Acid

Linolenic Acid

AKA “alpha-Linolenic acid, (9Z, 15Z)-octadeca-9, 15-trienoic acid, all-cis-9, 15-Octadecatrienoic acid, Z)-9”

Fatty Acid

Ingredient Facts

Linolenic acid

AKA: Alpha-Linolenic acid, (9Z, 15Z)-octadeca-9, 15-trienoic acid, All-cis-9, 15-Octadecatrienoic acid, Z)-9

Fatty Acid · Emollient · EWG: 4

Synthetic

Emollient

Fragrance

Skin Conditioner

Fatty Acid

Clean

An omega-3 fatty acid that softens and conditions skin and hair while helping maintain a smooth, static-free finish.

Solubility less than 1 mg/mL at 72 °F (NTP, 1992)

Formula

C18H30O2

Mol. Weight

278.40

CAS #

463-40-1

Form

Liquid

State

Linolenic acid is a clear colorless liquid. (NTP, 1992)

See origin →

Functions

Antistatic

Cleanser

Conditioning

A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.

Fragrance

Added for scent. Can be natural or synthetic. Common irritant and allergen — one of the top reasons people react to products.

Emollient

Fills in the tiny cracks between skin cells to make everything feel smooth and soft. The "silky finish" ingredient.

Reduces Static

Removes Impurities

Conditions Hair

Adds Fragrance

Traditional Use

An essential omega-3 fatty acid identified in the early 20th century. Historically valued in traditional diets from flaxseed and other plant sources; modern skincare adopted it for its role in maintaining skin barrier function and reducing inflammation.