Palmitic Acid

Palmitic acid is a saturated fatty acid found in many natural oils and fats, refined for cosmetic use. It stabilizes emulsions, builds viscosity and structure, and gives a smooth, conditioned feel with barrier-supporting richness.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
A fatty acid that thickens creams and leaves skin feeling smooth.
Category
Emulsifying, Skin Conditioning, Barrier Support
Type
Emulsifier

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Good

Comedogenic Risk

Low

Skin Benefits

Helps reinforce the skin's protective layer for a softer, more comfortable feel. Contributes to a creamy, cushioned skin sensation.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Used in lotions, creams, and cleansing bars to add body and a smooth application, and in moisturizers to boost richness.

Comedogenic Rating

Palmitic Acid has a comedogenic rating of 2. It has a low likelihood of clogging pores but may not suit all skin types.

Safety

Low irritation potential in most users. Can contribute to breakouts for acne-prone skin, especially in rich leave-on products; patch test or introduce gradually.

Is Palmitic Acid a Good Ingredient?

Rated Good as a stable, skin-relevant fatty acid that reliably supports barrier function and texture in formulas. It's not a high-impact active and may be comedogenic for some users, which is why it doesn't rank higher.

Products with Palmitic Acid

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