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PALM ACID

Description

Palm acid, also known as palmitic acid, is a saturated fatty acid commonly found in both plant and animal sources, with palm oil being a significant natural source. This long-chain fatty acid consists of 16 carbon atoms and plays a crucial role in skincare formulations due to its versatile properties.

In skincare products, palm acid functions as an emollient and thickening agent, contributing to the texture and stability of formulations. It helps create a protective barrier on the skin's surface, reducing transepidermal water loss and improving moisture retention. Palm acid also exhibits mild antimicrobial properties, potentially aiding in the preservation of cosmetic products.

The ingredient is particularly beneficial for dry or mature skin types, as it can help restore the skin's lipid barrier and improve overall skin texture. Palm acid is often incorporated into cleansers, moisturizers, and lip balms for its conditioning effects. While generally well-tolerated, it may cause comedogenicity in acne-prone individuals when used in high concentrations.

When sourcing palm acid for skincare formulations, it's important to consider sustainable and ethical production practices to minimize environmental impact.