Elaeis Guineensis Oil
A palm plant oil. It nourishes and softens skin, a common source of tocopherols. Well tolerated.
Evidence by route
Topical application
A nourishing plant oil. Safe.
- CIR Cosmetic Ingredient Review safety assessment
How to read tiers A–F
- BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Elaeis Guineensis Oil is palm oil, pressed from the fruit of the African oil palm. It is made up mainly of palmitic and oleic acids and often carries natural tocopherols (vitamin E). In cosmetics it works as an emollient: it nourishes, softens and leaves a film that reduces water loss. It is a texture-care agent, not a treatment active. It improves the feel and nourishment of the skin and serves as an oil base in creams and sticks. The tocopherols it brings add a small antioxidant contribution, but its main role stays emollient. For topical use there is no meaningful systemic absorption, so it can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding without concern. Tolerance is good: irritation and allergy potential are low, suitable for sensitive skin. The point to watch is comedogenicity, which is high (3 out of 5). On oily or acne-prone skin it can be occlusive and help clog pores, so in those cases lighter oils are the better choice.
Frequently asked questions
Is Elaeis Guineensis Oil safe during pregnancy?
Elaeis Guineensis Oil is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Elaeis Guineensis Oil for?
Elaeis Guineensis Oil suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Elaeis Guineensis Oil and what does it do in cosmetics?
A palm plant oil.
Is Elaeis Guineensis Oil comedogenic?
On the Fulton scale 3/5 – moderate comedogenicity. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
What's the INCI name for Elaeis Guineensis Oil?
The INCI name is Elaeis Guineensis Oil. It may also appear as: Palm Oil.
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Ingredients in the same category
Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Kernel Oil, Erythritol, Ethyl Macadamiate, Ethyl Oleate, Hydrolyzed Jojoba Esters, Olive Oil Glycereth-8 Esters, Silybum Marianum Seed Oil, Betaine
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