3-Hydroxyoctadecanoic acid is utilized in the synthesis of specialized lipids and surfactants, which are essential in the formulation of personal care products such as moisturizers and creams. Its amphiphilic nature allows it to act as an emulsifier, stabilizing mixtures of oil and water in cosmetic preparations. Additionally, it serves as a precursor in the production of bio-based polymers, contributing to the development of biodegradable materials. In the pharmaceutical industry, it is explored for its potential in drug delivery systems due to its ability to enhance the solubility and bioavailability of certain compounds. Furthermore, it is studied in biochemical research for its role in lipid metabolism and signaling pathways.