Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Kernel Oil
A plant oil from oil palm kernels. It nourishes and softens skin but may clog pores on blemish-prone skin.
Evidence by route
Topical application
A nourishing plant oil. Safe; may not suit blemish-prone skin.
- 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
Palm kernel oil (INCI: Elaeis Guineensis Palm Kernel Oil) is a vegetable oil from the seeds of the oil palm fruit, rich in saturated fatty acids including lauric acid. In formulas it nourishes and softens the skin and gives body to creams and body butters. As an active it is an emollient. It works well to soften skin and reduce water loss, but it is not a treatment; its role is nourishment and feel. At that level it delivers what it promises. Topically there is no meaningful systemic exposure, so it can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Irritation and allergy risk are low, so it is generally well tolerated. The point to watch is its high comedogenicity: on oily, acne-prone skin it can clog pores and trigger breakouts. It is more comfortable on dry body skin than on an acne-prone face.
Frequently asked questions
Is Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Kernel Oil safe during pregnancy?
Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Kernel Oil is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Kernel Oil for?
Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Kernel Oil suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Kernel Oil and what does it do in cosmetics?
A plant oil from oil palm kernels.
Is Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Kernel Oil comedogenic?
On the Fulton scale 4/5 – high comedogenicity. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
What's the INCI name for Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Kernel Oil?
The INCI name is Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Kernel Oil. It may also appear as: Palm Kernel Oil.
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Similar role in the formula
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