Recommended Low Odor, Oxidation Resistant Oils for Oil Soap (50% Main Ingredient)
Question
Besides Fractionated Coconut Oil and Jojoba Oil recommended for use in Oil Soap, are there other oils you recommend to be used as the main ingredient (around 50% or more)?
I am looking for oils that are low in odor and resistant to oxidation. Specifically, I would like to know your recommendation regarding the following oils:
1. Apricot Kernel Oil (Refined)
2. Sweet Almond Oil (Refined)
3. Safflower Seed Oil (High Oleic, Refined)
4. Grape Seed Oil (Refined)
5. Flaxseed Oil (High Omega)
6. Wheat Germ Oil (Virgin)
7. Tea (Camellia oleifera) Seed Oil (Refined)
Answer
Recommended Oils for Oil Soap (50%+)
Based on your requirements for a low-odor oil with good oxidation resistance to be used as the main component (50% or more) in an Oil Soap formulation, here are some recommendations from the oils you listed:
Apricot Kernel Oil (Refined): This refined oil is generally low in odor and contains a good balance of oleic and linoleic fatty acids, offering reasonable stability. It's well-absorbed and suitable for skin care.
Sweet Almond Oil (Refined): Another refined oil that is typically low in odor and widely used in cosmetics. It's moisturizing and has good skin-conditioning properties. Its fatty acid profile provides decent oxidative stability.
Safflower Seed Oil (High Oleic, Refined): The high oleic variety of Safflower Oil is particularly noted for its improved oxidative stability compared to standard safflower oil. Being refined, it should also have a low odor, making it a strong candidate for your requirements.
Tea (Camellia oleifera) Seed Oil (Refined): This oil is high in oleic acid (Omega 9), which contributes to its good oxidative stability. The refined version should have minimal odor. It's a medium-weight oil that is easily absorbed.
These oils are generally more stable and have less noticeable odors when refined, making them suitable for use at higher concentrations in your Oil Soap formulation.
Oils Less Suitable for Your Criteria
Some oils from your list are less ideal for your specific needs:
Grape Seed Oil (Refined): While refined and lower in odor, Grape Seed Oil, even refined, can be more prone to oxidation compared to oils higher in oleic acid. It's often recommended to avoid heat, sunlight, and air, indicating its sensitivity.
Flaxseed Oil (High Omega): This oil is very high in Omega-3 fatty acids, which are highly prone to oxidation. It is explicitly recommended to avoid heat, sunlight, and weather, making it unsuitable for a formulation where oxidation resistance is a key requirement, especially at high percentages.
Wheat Germ Oil (Virgin): Virgin oils can have a more distinct odor than refined oils. Wheat Germ Oil also contains fatty acids that can be susceptible to oxidation. The description advises avoiding heat, sunlight, and weather, suggesting lower stability.
In summary, Apricot Kernel Oil (Refined), Sweet Almond Oil (Refined), High Oleic Safflower Seed Oil (Refined), and Tea Seed Oil (Refined) are the most recommended options from your list for use as the primary oil (50%+) in your Oil Soap formulation, given your preference for low odor and oxidation resistance.
Related Products Mentioned
Apricot Kernel Oil (Refined)