PALMATIC ACID ●
TL;DR. This ingredient is a saturated lipid used as an emollient, texture builder, opacifier, and thickening aid. In cleansers, its neutralized salt form can contribute to foam structure and cleansing.
What does PALMATIC ACID do in a cosmetic formula?
This ingredient is a saturated lipid used as an emollient, texture builder, opacifier, and thickening aid. In cleansers, its neutralized salt form can contribute to foam structure and cleansing.
Is PALMATIC ACID clean?
It is generally well tolerated and not a common clean-standard restricted-list issue. In leave-on formulas, the main watchpoint is skin feel and breakout potential for some acne-prone users, which depends heavily on the total formula.
Is PALMATIC ACID sustainable?
This material is commonly sourced from palm-derived oils, with possible supply-chain concerns around land use and traceability. It is readily biodegradable, and sourcing certifications can improve its sustainability profile.
Is PALMATIC ACID COSMOS-approved?
It is generally permitted under COSMOS-natural and COSMOS-organic when derived from accepted natural feedstocks and processed through allowed routes. Its Green Chemistry fit is strongest when made from responsibly sourced renewable oils using simple hydrolysis or splitting processes.
How does PALMATIC ACID work chemically?
The molecule is a C16 saturated carboxylic acid with a waxy, lipophilic character and low water solubility. It is stable to oxidation compared with unsaturated lipids, and is often used in low single-digit percentages for structure, opacity, and skin feel.
Last updated 2026-05-13