Glyceryl Palmitate

What is Glyceryl Palmitate?

Glyceryl Palmitate is a monoglyceride ester produced by combining glycerol, a trihydroxy alcohol derived from vegetable oils or animal fats, with palmitic acid, a saturated C16 fatty acid abundant in palm kernel oil and meat. This biocompatible lipid is a staple in cosmetic formulations such as body lotions, face creams, shampoos, and foundations. It functions primarily through its amphiphilic structure, with hydrophilic glycerol heads and lipophilic fatty tails that align at oil-water interfaces. This enables emulsification by reducing interfacial tension and forming protective films around droplets, ensuring product homogeneity. As an emollient, it lubricates the skin barrier, diminishing roughness and enhancing spreadability. Surfactant properties further aid in dispersing oils and dirt during cleansing, contributing to a creamy texture and improved rinse-off performance without residue.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 2-3 View on EWG →
PubChem View on PubChem →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Emollient
Softens and smooths skin by filling in surface roughness and improving slip; can also help reduce moisture loss when paired with occlusives and film formers.
Surfactant
Lowers surface tension to enable cleansing, emulsifying, and foaming; central to shampoos, body washes, and many emulsions and micellar systems.
Emulsifying agent
Enables stable mixing of oil and water phases by forming an interfacial film, helping create lotions, creams, and cleansers with consistent texture.

Benefits

Softens skin by mimicking natural lipids and filling surface gaps for smoother feel.

Stabilizes emulsions in lotions and creams for consistent texture over time.

Supports mild cleansing as a surfactant in washes and shampoos.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Individuals with dry skin needing extra softening and hydration support.
Those with rare allergies to fatty acid esters or palmitic acid.
Users of cream-based moisturizers and sunscreens for better stability.
Individuals sensitive to monoglyceride emulsifiers in cosmetics.
People seeking non-comedogenic options in daily skincare routines.
People preferring palm-free ingredients due to sourcing concerns.

Safety Notes

  • EWG rates it 2-3, signaling low overall hazard potential.
  • Non-comedogenic at rating 0, unlikely to block pores.

Frequently Asked Questions about Glyceryl Palmitate

What does Glyceryl Palmitate do in skincare?

It softens skin as an emollient, blends oil and water as an emulsifier, and aids cleansing as a surfactant.

Is Glyceryl Palmitate safe for daily use?

Yes, with low EWG hazard scores and non-comedogenic profile for broad compatibility.

Can sensitive skin use products with it?

Generally well-tolerated, but patch testing recommended for personal sensitivities.