Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Oil
Vegetable oil from oil palm fruit. Highly occlusive emollient rich in palmitic and oleic acids. Suitable for dry skin, may aggravate acne-prone skin.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Plant extract. Clinically meaningful effect on human skin is not supported by robust evidence; data limited to in vitro / lab models.
How to read tiers A–F
- CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Unknown
About this ingredient
Palm Oil (Elaeis Guineensis Oil) is a vegetable oil from oil palm fruit Elaeis guineensis, native to West Africa. One of the world's most common plant fats – used in food, cosmetics, and industry. Composition. Palmitic acid (40-50%), oleic acid (35-40%), linoleic (10%), stearic (3-5%). High saturated fatty acid content makes the oil dense and occlusive. A source of tocopherols (vitamin E) and carotenoids. Mechanism. On skin it forms an occlusive film, reduces transepidermal water loss, restores the lipid barrier. Suitable for very dry skin and in body formulas. Due to high palmitic acid content can aggravate comedogenicity in acne-prone facial skin. Where applied. Soap (classic Marseille soap), body balms, hand creams, solid shampoo bars, margarine (in food). In Spain – mass-market soap Heno de Pravia, La Toja, Magno, artisan olfactory formats. Environmental controversy. The main discussion around palm oil is not skin safety, but the environmental damage of cultivation. Destruction of tropical forests in Southeast Asia for palm plantations threatens biodiversity (orangutans, tigers). Manufacturers increasingly indicate RSPO certification (Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil) – confirms sustainable production. Skin safety. CIR confirmed palm oil safe in cosmetic use. Allergic reactions extremely rare. The main limitation is comedogenicity (index 2-4 depending on refinement). For acne-prone facial skin – use with caution. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. No restrictions on any skin area, including the nipple area during lactation. Best suited to: very dry body skin, soap and hygiene products. Not for oily and combination facial skin.
Frequently asked questions
Is Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Oil safe during pregnancy?
Safety data for Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Oil during pregnancy is insufficient. Best avoided when in doubt.
What is Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Oil and what does it do in cosmetics?
Vegetable oil from oil palm fruit.
What's the INCI name for Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Oil?
The INCI name is Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Oil. It may also appear as: Palm Oil.
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