linoleic acid

Linoleic acid is an essential polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acid (PUFA) that cannot be synthesized by humans and must be obtained from the diet[4][5][6]. It is a colorless liquid at room temperature and virtually insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents[5]. Linoleic acid serves as a structural component of cell membranes, maintaining membrane fluidity and integrity—especially in the epidermal barrier of the skin[4]. It can be metabolized through elongation and desaturation to form other bioactive omega-6 PUFAs such as gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) and arachidonic acid (AA)[4][6]. Arachidonic acid is further converted into eicosanoids like prostaglandins and leukotrienes, which play roles in inflammation and cellular signaling[4][5][6]. Linoleic acid also functions as an energy source or can be esterified into neutral lipids. In addition to its nutritional role, it has applications in cosmetics for its anti-inflammatory, acne-reducing, skin-lightening, and moisture-retentive properties when applied topically[5]. Industrially, it is used in quick-drying oils for paints due to its ability to undergo autoxidation.

Other names

cis,cis-9,12-octadecadienoic acidLA18:2(n-6)omega-6 fatty acidomega6 fatty acidomega 6 fatty acid