Ricinoleic Acid …
INCI: RICINOLEIC ACID/ADIPIC ACID/AEEA COPOLYMER
Reviewed by Daisy · Last updated 14 Aug 2026
A polymer that stabilises texture and controls viscosity in skincare formulations
Best For Skin Types
All
Usage Frequency
As directed by product instructions
What Is Ricinoleic Acid …?
Ricinoleic Acid/Adipic Acid/AEEA Copolymer is a synthetic polymer—a long-chain molecule made by combining ricinoleic acid (derived from castor oil), adipic acid, and AEEA (aminoethylethanolamine). It functions as a viscosity controlling agent, meaning it helps formulators manage the thickness and flow of skincare products.
This ingredient is used primarily behind the scenes in product formulation rather than for a direct skincare benefit. Its role is to ensure that creams, serums, and lotions have the right consistency, spreadability, and stability over time.
How It Works
As a copolymer, this ingredient works by thickening the liquid phase of a formulation and creating a stable matrix. It achieves this through its molecular structure, which allows it to absorb water and form a gel-like network. This keeps the product uniform and prevents ingredients from separating.
The polymer also helps control how the product flows when applied to skin, which indirectly affects how evenly other active ingredients are distributed.
Clinical Evidence & References
Limited published clinical evidence is available specifically for this copolymer in skincare. Most research on polymer viscosity agents focuses on their functional role in formulation stability rather than direct effects on skin.
As a formulation ingredient, its primary benefit is ensuring the product remains stable and usable throughout its shelf life—which does matter for the efficacy of active ingredients within it.
How to Use
This ingredient requires no special usage guidance from a consumer perspective. It is a formulation component that works transparently within the product. Simply use the skincare product as directed by the brand; the polymer will be integrated into the formula.
Safety & Precautions
Frequently Asked Questions
From the Clinic
Not sure what your skin actually needs?
Two minutes, a few questions, and we’ll point you at what matters — no guesswork.
Take the skin quizRelated Ingredients
Quaternium-18 Bentonite
An organoclay that helps stabilise formulations and support skin barrier resilience
Quaternium-90 Bentonite
A clay-derived viscosity agent with potential skin-conditioning properties
Rhus Succedanea Fruit Wax
A plant-derived wax that stabilises texture and consistency in skincare formulations
Sclerotium Gum
A naturally derived, sugar-based ingredient | Produced by the fermentation of the Sclerotium rolfsii fungus
Sd Alcohol 40-B
A volatile alcohol used as a solvent and astringent in skincare formulations
Shea Butteramide/Castoramide DEA
A viscosity regulator derived from natural plant oils, used to control product texture
Learn More About Skincare Ingredients
Explore our comprehensive ingredient glossary to understand what's in your products.
Browse All IngredientsShop Our Products
Find professional skincare solutions at Skintique.