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Researched by Helena DeMaria-Williams

Formula IngredientEmollient

Soybean Oil

INCI: Glycine Soja Oil

Glycine Soja Oil is the fixed oil extracted from soybeans (Glycine soja). It is composed primarily of triglycerides, with a fatty acid profile rich in linoleic acid (48–59%), oleic acid (17–30%), and alpha-linolenic acid (4.5–11%), which give it barrier-repairing and nourishing properties. It functions as a cost-effective, plant-derived base oil that conditions the skin and supports the lipid barrier.

Category

Emollient

Irritation Risk

Low

Skin Types

dry, normal, combination, mature skin

What does this do in a formula?

emollient, skin barrier repair, moisturisation, skin conditioning, anti-inflammatory support

Is Soybean Oil safe? Key considerations

Can Soybean Oil cause irritation?

Low Risk

Irritancy rating of 0 on the INCIDecoder scale — considered non-irritating. No EU CosIng Annex II or III restrictions apply. Well tolerated by most skin types. Those with soy allergies should exercise caution as topical exposure may trigger reactions in highly sensitive individuals.

Does Soybean Oil increase sun sensitivity?

No Risk

Glycine Soja Oil does not increase photosensitivity. No sun protection precautions are required based on the presence of this ingredient in a formulation.

Is Soybean Oil safe during pregnancy?

Safe

Topical application of soybean oil is generally considered safe during pregnancy. There are no known reproductive or developmental concerns associated with cosmetic use. No restrictions are noted in EWG or CIR safety data for topical application.

How does Soybean Oil work?

Glycine Soja Oil is the fixed oil extracted from soybeans (Glycine soja). It is composed primarily of triglycerides, with a fatty acid profile rich in linoleic acid (48–59%), oleic acid (17–30%), and alpha-linolenic acid (4.5–11%), which give it barrier-repairing and nourishing properties. It functions as a cost-effective, plant-derived base oil that conditions the skin and supports the lipid barrier.

Individuals with acne-prone skin (use with caution), oily skin, soy allergy should review the considerations above before use.