Pentaerythrityl Tetraoleate is the oleic acid (C18:1) ester of pentaerythritol. The unsaturated oleic acid chain provides excellent spreadability and a rich, penetrating emollient feel. However, unsaturation makes it more susceptible to oxidation than fully saturated variants.
Key Skin Benefits
+ Excellent spreadability and skin penetration
+ Rich, conditioning emollient feel
+ Good slip for massage products
+ Can help solubilize other lipophilic ingredients
Pros
+ Highly spreadable — luxurious application
+ Good skin penetration
+ Works well in massage and body products
Cons
− Unsaturated — can oxidize/rancidify over time
− Requires antioxidant protection (Vitamin E)
− May feel too greasy for facial use
Specifications
Property
Value
Usage Areas
Face, Body
Product Type
N/A
Source
Synthetic
Natural Level
Synthetic
Safety Ratings
Metric
Rating
Skin Sensitivity
1/5
Comedogenic Rating
2-3/5
EWG Score
2/10
Regional Regulatory Limits
Region
Leave-on %
Rinse-off %
Status
EU (CosIng)
No limit
No limit
Allowed
US (CIR/FDA)
No limit
No limit
Allowed
Japan (MHLW)
No limit
No limit
Allowed
ASEAN
No limit
No limit
Allowed
China (NMPA)
No limit
No limit
Allowed
Typical Usage % by Product Type
Product Type
Typical %
Body oil
10 - 30%
Massage cream
5 - 15%
Lip balm
5 - 15%
References
CIR — Safety Assessment of pentaerythrityl esters. PMID: 25850168
EU CosIng Database — Listed as skin conditioning/emollient.