Skincare Ingredient
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Palmitic Acid
In Skincare: Is Palmitic Acid Safe? Comedogenic Rating & Side Effects
Safety Information
Quick Insights
At a glance
- 01
Palmitic acid is a fatty acid naturally present in skin.
- 02
As the most prevalent fatty acid, palmitic acid is found across animals, plants, and microorganisms.
- 03
Palmitic acid functions as a cleansing detergent, emulsifier, and emollient in cosmetic formulations.
- 04
The CIR Expert Panel has determined palmitic acid to be safe for use in cosmetics.
Overview
Ingredient Profile
Data & Research
Scientific Facts
Common Uses
Formulation in Palmitic Acid
Role of Palmitic Acid
Active Cosmetic Mechanisms
SKIN CONDITIONING - EMOLLIENT
Skin SoftenerSoftens and smooths skin by filling gaps between cells
SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS
// Evidence: Emollient ingredients create smooth, soft skin by filling spaces between corneocytes in stratum corneum. These include esters (isopropyl palmitate), oils (jojoba, argan), fatty alcohols, and silicones. The mechanism involves spreading on skin surface, filling microscopic irregularities, and creating lubricious film. Effects are immediate tactile improvement and visual smoothing. Emolliency measured by spreading coefficient and skin feel assessments.
SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING
Emulsifying SurfactantBlends oil and water phases into stable mixtures
SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS
// Evidence: Emulsifying surfactants enable creation of stable oil-in-water or water-in-oil emulsions by positioning at oil-water interface, reducing interfacial tension. HLB (hydrophilic-lipophilic balance) determines emulsion type: HLB 3-6 for W/O, HLB 8-18 for O/W emulsions. Examples include polysorbate 80, ceteareth-20, glyceryl stearate. Mechanism involves forming interfacial film preventing droplet coalescence. Often used in combinations with co-emulsifiers (fatty alcohols) creating lamellar structures for enhanced stability.
Products
containing Palmitic Acid
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References
Scientific sources
Journal of Archives in Military Medicine, November 2020
PLoS One, October 2018, ePublication
Biophysical Chemistry, August 2010, issues 1-3, pages 144-156
Journal of Korean Medical Science, June 2010, pages 980-983
Dermaviduals, 2003, issue 4, pages 54-56
Similar Ingredients
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Frequently Asked Questions
Palmitic Acid — common questions
What is Palmitic Acid in skincare?
Palmitic acid is a saturated fatty acid that occurs naturally in animal and vegetable fats and oils. It’s often found alongside other fatty acids like stearic acid, oleic acid, lauric acid, and myristic acid. These fatty acids are commonly used in cosmetic formulations such as creams, lotions, and pastes to provide emollient and thickening properties.
What does Palmitic Acid do? / Functions of Palmitic Acid?
Common functions: SKIN CONDITIONING - EMOLLIENT, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING.
What is the comedogenic rating of Palmitic Acid? / Is Palmitic Acid comedogenic?
Palmitic Acid has a comedogenic rating of 4 out of 5. This ingredient appears to be comedogenic. A rating of 4 means it has high pore-clogging potential.
Does it clog pores?
This ingredient appears to be comedogenic (rating 4/5).
Is Palmitic Acid safe for skin?
Palmitic Acid has a safety rating of 2 out of 5. A rating of 2 means it is generally considered safe for most skin types. Note: Palmitic acid is generally recognized as safe for use in cosmetics by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel at concentrations typically used in formulations. However, due to its comedogeni
Is Palmitic Acid good for sensitive skin?
Palmitic Acid has an irritancy rating of 2 out of 5. A rating of 2 means it is generally well-tolerated.
What are the side effects of Palmitic Acid in skincare?
Known considerations: Palmitic acid is generally recognized as safe for use in cosmetics by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel at concentrations typically used in formulations. However, due to its comedogenic potential, it may contribute to pore clogging and is not recommended for individuals with acne-prone or highly sensitive skin. Additional risks: potential pore-clogging (comedogenic rating 4/5).