Quick answer
Ester of cetyl alcohol and palmitic acid; Helps smooth and condition dry skin; May be animal- or plant-derived, or made synthetically; White, waxy solid in its raw form
Cetyl Palmitate
Updated
Hexadecyl hexadecanoate
Purpose
This ester of non-irritating cetyl alcohol and palmitic acid serves as a thickener and moisturizing ingredient that helps condition dry skin. In its raw form it is a white, waxy solid.
Rating
GOOD
Category
Texture Enhancer, Emollient
INCI Purpose
FRAGRANCE, SKIN CONDITIONING, SKIN CONDITIONING - EMOLLIENT
Alternative Names
At a Glance
Ester of cetyl alcohol and palmitic acid
Helps smooth and condition dry skin
May be animal- or plant-derived, or made synthetically
White, waxy solid in its raw form
Article
Cetyl palmitate is an ester of cetyl alcohol and palmitic acid, this thickener and emollient helps smooth and condition dry skin. The ingredients that comprise cetyl palmitate are naturally occurring fatty acids.
Cetyl palmitate may be derived from animals (it is a component of corals) but can also - and is usually - derived from plants or manufactured synthetically (this is the type Paula’s Choice uses). In its raw form, it is a waxy white solid.
The independent Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel has found that cetyl palmitate safe as used in cosmetics, where its usage is usually in concentrations of 2.7% or less.
References