Palmitic Acid

Palmitic Acid

AKA “Hexadecanoic acid, 57-10-3, Cetylic acid, n-Hexadecanoic acid, Hexadecylic acid, 1-Pentadecanecarboxylic acid, n-Hexadecoic acid, Hydrofol, Palmitinic acid”

Acid

Ingredient Facts

Palmitic acid

AKA: Hexadecanoic acid, 57-10-3, Cetylic acid, N-Hexadecanoic acid, Hexadecylic acid, 1-Pentadecanecarboxylic acid, N-Hexadecoic acid, Hydrofol, Palmitinic acid

Acid · Emollient · EWG: 1

Synthetic

Emollient

Cleanser

Emulsifier

Skin Conditioner

Plant Oil

Acid

Clean

Palmitic acid, or hexadecanoic acid is one of the most common saturated fatty acids found in animals and plants, a saturated fatty acid found in fats and waxes including olive oil, palm oil, and body lipids. It occurs in the form of esters (glycerides) in oils and fats of vegetable and animal origin and is usually obtained from palm oil, which is widely distributed in plants. Palmitic acid is used in determination of water hardness and is an active ingredient of *Levovist*TM, used in echo enhancement in sonographic Doppler B-mode imaging and as an ultrasound contrast medium.

Solubility 0.04

Formula

C16H32O2

Mol. Weight

256.42

CAS #

57-10-3

Form

Powder

State

Liquid, Other Solid; Other Solid; Dry Powder; Liquid; Pellets or Large Crystals; Pellets or Large Crystals, Other Solid

See origin →

Functions

Emollient

Fills in the tiny cracks between skin cells to make everything feel smooth and soft. The "silky finish" ingredient.

Emulsifying

Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.

Locks In Moisture

Traditional Use

Palmitic acid is naturally derived from palm oil and animal fats, used historically in soap-making for centuries. The sodium salt form is a modern refinement developed for use as an emulsifier and thickening agent in contemporary cosmetics.