Emollient

Ethylhexyl Palmitate

A popular synthetic ester based on palmitic acid — ethylhexyl palmitate provides easy glide and dry-finish in decorative cosmetics, sunscreens, and skincare products.

emollientesterdecorative cosmeticsdry finish

⚠ Use with Caution

Comedogenic Rating

2/5

Irritation Potential

0/5

What is it?

Ethylhexyl Palmitate (2-ethylhexyl palmitate) — a synthetic ester of 2-ethylhexanol and palmitic acid (C16). In INCI: Ethylhexyl Palmitate. A colorless oily-liquid substance. Structurally similar to ethylhexyl stearate, but based on C16 acid — somewhat lighter texture. Widely used in liquid foundations, blushes, and cream eyeshadows.

Emollient and pigment carrier in liquid foundations, lipsticks, cream blushes, and eyeshadows. Dissolves pigments and ensures their even distribution. Also used in SPF formulas and lightweight moisturizers.

Key Benefits

✦

Even distribution of pigments

Ethylhexyl palmitate is an ideal carrier for organic and mineral pigments — provides even color, smooth blend, and buildable coverage in liquid and cream formulas.

◈

Light dry-finish feel

After application, it leaves a characteristic dry, powder-like feel instead of a greasy shine — a standard in longwear foundation and oil-control formulas.

✧

Stability and longevity

The chemical stability of the ester ensures a long shelf life of the formula and color stability — an important characteristic for decorative cosmetics.

Suitable for

for all skin typesfor oily skin

Main Actions

✓ emollient✓ pigment carrier✓ dry finish✓ formula stabilization

Medium comedogenic risk

Ethylhexyl palmitate has a comedogenic rating of 3/5 — may provoke pore blockage in acne-prone individuals. If you notice the appearance of milia or comedones after certain foundations — check the composition for this ingredient.

CategoryEmollients

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