What Is C14-16 Glycol Palmitate?
C14-16 Glycol Palmitate is an ester created when palmitic acid, a fatty acid found in palm and coconut oils, reacts with a mix of long-chain glycols that have 14 to 16 carbon atoms. The result is a smooth wax-like substance that melts near skin temperature and feels light when applied.
Chemists first explored this type of ester in the 1970s while searching for plant-based substitutes for mineral oil and animal waxes. Its stable texture, pleasant slip and skin-friendly profile led to quick adoption in personal care formulas during the 1980s.
Manufacturers normally produce C14-16 Glycol Palmitate through a safe, high-temperature transesterification process. Natural vegetable oils supply the palmitic acid while bio-based glycols provide the alcohol portion. After purification the finished ingredient appears as off-white flakes or a soft solid that melts easily into oils and emulsions.
You will see C14-16 Glycol Palmitate in many leave-on and rinse-off products such as facial moisturizers, night creams, anti-aging serums, sheet masks, body lotions, hand creams, lip balms, creamy cleansers and lightweight makeup primers. Its versatility also makes it useful in sunscreens, tinted moisturizers and hair smoothing creams.
C14-16 Glycol Palmitate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasking ester improves both the feel and performance of a wide range of skincare and makeup products.
- Skin Conditioning – softens and smooths the skin surface giving formulas a silky afterfeel
- Emollient – forms a light occlusive layer that helps lock in moisture which can reduce dryness and flaking
- Emulsifying – helps oil and water mix evenly so creams stay stable smooth and homogenous
Who Can Use C14-16 Glycol Palmitate
This ester is gentle enough for most skin types. Its light, silky film helps trap water without feeling greasy so it works well for dry, normal and combination skin. Oily or acne-prone users usually tolerate it too because the molecule is smaller and more mobile than heavy plant butters, though anyone who clogs easily may want to keep an eye on how their skin responds.
C14-16 Glycol Palmitate is made from plant-derived fatty acids and bio-based glycols which makes it suitable for vegetarians and vegans. The only caveat is that some suppliers still rely on conventional palm oil so shoppers who avoid palm for environmental reasons may want to look for brands that source certified sustainable material.
No studies link this ingredient to problems during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Its structure is too large to penetrate deeply and it is not known to act like a hormone. This is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should show their full routine to a healthcare professional just to be sure.
The ester does not absorb UV light and does not make skin more sensitive to the sun, so it can be used morning or night without raising the risk of sunburn. It also plays nicely with common actives like vitamin C, niacinamide and retinoids as it does not affect their pH or stability.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical C14-16 Glycol Palmitate differ from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects only and most people will not experience them when the ingredient is used at standard levels in a well-formulated product.
- Redness or itching – rare allergic contact dermatitis can show up as mild redness flaking or itch
- Clogged pores – very oily or blemish-prone skin may notice extra blackheads or breakouts if the formula is rich in this ester
- Stinging on compromised skin – freshly exfoliated or sunburned skin may feel a short-lived tingle
- Eye irritation – if the product migrates into the eyes it can cause watering and a mild sting until rinsed out
If any of these issues occur stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 2/5. C14-16 Glycol Palmitate is a lightweight ester with smaller molecules than heavy butters yet it still leaves a thin occlusive film. This modest film helps retain moisture but can sit in pores if skin produces a lot of sebum, so it earns a low-to-medium score rather than a perfect zero.
Most acne-prone users tolerate it but those who clog easily should watch for any uptick in whiteheads or blackheads, especially if the product lists this ester high on the ingredient list.
Formulation matters: when blended into a well-balanced lotion alongside non-comedogenic oils and good surfactants the real-world risk drops further.
Summary
C14-16 Glycol Palmitate acts as a skin conditioner, emollient and co-emulsifier. Its waxy ester structure spreads smoothly over the surface where it fills micro-gaps, softens rough patches and forms a breathable barrier that slows water loss. The same structure also improves the stability and texture of emulsions keeping oil and water mixed so creams feel silky instead of greasy or watery.
While not a headline ingredient like hyaluronic acid or retinol, it quietly appears in many mainstream moisturizers, sunscreens and makeup primers because formulators value its slip and melt-on-skin feel. Its plant-derived origin and gentle profile add to the appeal.
Safety data show low irritation and no hormonal activity, so it is considered safe for regular topical use. As with any new cosmetic it is wise to patch test a small area first in case of personal sensitivities.