The Index · Emollient / occlusive

Isopropyl Palmitate

Isopropyl Palmitate is an emollient ester that softens skin and improves spread.

ModerateConventional cosmetic INCI with established use context.

Written byTheSkindex Desk

Reviewed byNot yet reviewed

Last updated5 Oct 2026

Sources2 cited

Isopropyl Palmitate is an emollient ester that softens skin and improves spread.

What it does

Supports the formula as a emollient / occlusive line item on cosmetic labels.

The evidence

Evidence grade moderate: Conventional cosmetic INCI with established use context from CIR/SCCS/manufacturer definitions and INCI databases such as SpecialChem/PubChem[1].

How to use it

Expect this as a supporting INCI line item unless labelled as a featured active.

Evidence by claim

Graded separately; the entry grade is the best-supported claim

Isopropyl Palmitate is an emollient ester that softens skin and improves spread.[1]

Moderate

Safety & limits

Source and region, always

all — Used in cosmetics within conventional leave-on/rinse-off levels; see cited safety literature.[1] CA US EU UK

Sources · 2

Numbered as cited in the text

[1]Cosmetic Ingredient Review. Cosmetic Ingredient Review safety assessment. CIR (2010)regulator
[2]SpecialChem. SpecialChem INCI profile: Isopropyl Palmitate. SpecialChem (2024)other

Revision history

18 Sept 2026Drafted by botTheSkindex Desk