Isostearyl Palmitate

Isostearyl palmitate is an ester of isostearyl alcohol and palmitic acid used in skincare and makeup. It conditions skin, increases slip, and gives a soft finish in creams, balms, and lip products.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
An ester that gives lips and skin a soft, cushioned finish.
Category
Skin Conditioning, Barrier Support, Hydration
Type
Emollient

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Good

Comedogenic Risk

Moderate

Skin Benefits

Nourishes for a softer, more comfortable feel and helps smooth the look of flaky areas. Adds a cushioned sensation ideal for delicate zones like lips and cheeks.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Frequently used in lipsticks, cream blushes, and rich moisturizers to impart plush emollience. Also appears in balms to boost creaminess and improve payoff during application.

Comedogenic Rating

Isostearyl Palmitate has a comedogenic rating of 3. It has a moderate likelihood of clogging pores, especially for acne-prone skin.

Safety

Usually well tolerated, but fatty acid esters can occasionally feel heavy or promote breakouts in acne-prone skin. No known specific regulatory limits. Patch test if you are sensitive.

Is Isostearyl Palmitate a Good Ingredient?

Rated Good as a cushioning emollient that improves spread and softness, with decent stability and generally low irritation in most formulations. It's a solid, functional choice rather than a standout one.

Products with Isostearyl Palmitate

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