Common Name(s): Ethyl palmate,ethyl palmate,ethyl ester,simple ethanol ester emollient
CAS Number: N/a
DESCRIPTION
What It Does: Provides c16 palmitic fatty acid emolliency in the lightest possible ester format — ethyl esters have the lowest molecular weight of any ester class, providing maximum sc penetration with minimal occlusive film.
Why It's Used: Ethyl palmate is selected for the ethyl ester format — ethanol's c2 chain provides the lightest, most rapid-penetrating ester matrix for c16 palmitic fatty acid delivery, penetrating the sc faster than any other ester of the same acid.
How It Works: Ethyl ester: minimal steric bulk → maximum sc penetration rate; short ethyl chain → near-zero occlusion film; acid chain (c16 palmitic) → specific emollient and barrier repair properties.
Typically Found In: Light emollient formulas,serums
TECHNICAL DETAILS
Primary Category: Functional ingredient – emollient
Secondary Functions: Barrier sealing,softening
Application Areas:
Facial Skincare
Body Care
Hair Care
Beard Care
Color Cosmetics (Makeup)
Dietary/Oral Supplements
Typical Concentration Range: 1%–20%
SOURCING & ETHICS
Vegan Status: Conditional - supplier confirmation required
Halal Status: Unverified - supplier confirmation required
Source Notes: Plant-derived, synthetic or animal-derived. verify source. [audit 2026-07-29 rev2: the record's own source_notes does not assert a non-animal origin, or instructs the reader to verify with the supplier; "yes" asserts knowledge the record does not hold. determination requires shariah-panel sign-off.]
SKIN COMPATIBILITY
Irritancy Rating: 1/5 – very low
Comedogenicity Rating: 1/5 – low; formulation-dependent
Sensitivity Concerns: Non-irritating.
Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes
SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY
Safety Profile: Excellent safety profile. ewg score: 1.
Works Well With: Humectants,ceramides,actives as carrier
Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities
SCIENTIFIC NOTE
Ethyl esters penetrate sc faster than isopropyl or ethylhexyl esters of the same fatty acid — the minimal ethyl group provides the optimal sc diffusion rate for rapid-absorbing formulas.
Last Verified: 2026-03-22
Primary Sources: Cosing database,ethyl palmate ethyl ester emollient review