Ethylhexyl Palmitate
Ethylhexyl Palmitate is a lightweight, non-greasy emollient commonly used in UK skincare and makeup to give products a smooth, silky feel. It helps soften skin and improves the spreadability of creams, serums, and foundations without leaving a heavy or oily residue.
How it works in skincare
In cosmetics and skincare, Ethylhexyl Palmitate functions primarily as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent. It works by forming a breathable layer on the skin’s surface that reduces transepidermal water loss while giving formulas a luxurious, velvety texture. Its low viscosity makes it excellent for helping active ingredients glide evenly across the skin and for preventing cosmetic products from feeling sticky or tacky.
Key benefits
- Provides a smooth, silky after-feel
- Enhances product spreadability
- Softens and conditions the skin
- Improves the texture of creams and lotions
- Helps reduce greasiness in formulations
- Gives a non-oily finish to makeup and skincare
Best for
dry skin, normal skin, combination skin, sensitive skin
Where it comes from
Ethylhexyl Palmitate is produced by reacting palmitic acid (naturally derived from palm oil or coconut oil) with ethylhexanol. The palmitic acid component comes from sustainable plant sources such as the fruit of oil palms.