Cetyl-Pg Hydroxyethyl Palmitamide: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: June 24, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Cetyl-Pg Hydroxyethyl Palmitamide?

Cetyl-Pg Hydroxyethyl Palmitamide is a lab-crafted fatty amide derived from palmitic acid, a fatty acid that occurs naturally in palm oil and some animal fats. Chemists link palmitic acid with a small molecule of propylene glycol and an added hydroxyethyl group, giving the final ingredient its long name and its slippery, skin-friendly feel. The compound was first explored in the late 1990s when formulators searched for plant-based alternatives to petrolatum. Its soft, buttery texture and skin-mimicking makeup made it a quick fit for moisturizers and soothing products.

The manufacturing process starts with purified palmitic acid that is reacted with propylene glycol to create a glyceryl ether. This intermediate is then combined with ethanolamine to introduce the hydroxyethyl side, followed by careful purification to remove any leftover reactants. The result is a wax-like substance that melts at skin temperature and blends smoothly into creams.

You will most often spot Cetyl-Pg Hydroxyethyl Palmitamide in rich face and body creams, overnight masks, hand lotions, anti-aging serums and after-sun treatments where a calm, cushioned skin feel is desired.

Cetyl-Pg Hydroxyethyl Palmitamide’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This ingredient is prized for one main role in skin care formulations.

Skin conditioning: Cetyl-Pg Hydroxyethyl Palmitamide forms a light, velvety film on the surface of the skin that helps trap moisture while giving products a plush glide. It softens rough spots, improves overall smoothness and can reduce the tight feeling that often follows cleansing. Because its molecular structure resembles some of the lipids found naturally in the skin barrier, it supports the barrier’s function and leaves skin feeling comfortable and resilient.

Who Can Use Cetyl-Pg Hydroxyethyl Palmitamide

This fatty amide is friendly to most skin types. Its barrier-supporting nature makes it especially helpful for dry, mature and sensitive skin that needs extra cushioning. Normal and combination skin can also enjoy the soft finish without feeling greasy because the ingredient melts in cleanly at body temperature. Very oily or acne-prone skin can usually tolerate it, yet those who struggle with persistent breakouts may prefer lighter textures and should check how the full formula feels after application.

Cetyl-Pg Hydroxyethyl Palmitamide is synthetically produced from palmitic acid that may be sourced from plant oils like palm or coconut. When the supplier confirms a plant origin and no animal-derived processing aids are used the ingredient is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Brands often label this clearly so shoppers can verify.

Current safety data shows no special concerns for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the ingredient is used in a topical cosmetic product. This is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should show any planned skincare routine to their healthcare provider to be certain it aligns with personal medical needs.

The molecule is stable in light and does not make skin more prone to sunburn, so it is not considered photosensitising. It also plays nicely with common actives such as vitamin C, retinol and niacinamide, so formulators often combine it without issue.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Cetyl-Pg Hydroxyethyl Palmitamide vary from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects that could occur although most users will not experience them when the ingredient is correctly formulated in a finished product.

  • Mild skin irritation
  • Redness or warmth at the application site
  • Temporary stinging if applied to broken or freshly exfoliated skin
  • Rare allergic contact dermatitis for individuals sensitive to fatty amides or propylene glycol derivatives

If irritation or any other unwanted reaction appears stop using the product and seek guidance from a medical professional if symptoms persist or worsen.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 2 / 5

Cetyl-Pg Hydroxyethyl Palmitamide is a mid-weight fatty amide that melts at skin temperature and absorbs cleanly. Its backbone is palmitic acid which on its own sits around 2 to 3 on most comedogenic scales. Because the molecule is modified with propylene glycol and hydroxyethyl groups it is less waxy than pure palmitic acid, so the likelihood of clogged pores drops slightly. A rating of 2 reflects that it may cause issues for a small subset of very congestion-prone users but generally performs well in modern, well-balanced formulas.

Most people who are prone to acne or breakouts can use products containing this ingredient without trouble, though ultra-sensitive oily skin types might prefer lighter alternatives.

The final product’s overall comedogenicity depends on the whole formula. If Cetyl-Pg Hydroxyethyl Palmitamide is paired with heavy butters or high levels of occlusive waxes the combined effect could be more pore-clogging than the ingredient alone.

Summary

Cetyl-Pg Hydroxyethyl Palmitamide is a lab-made fatty amide that conditions skin by forming a thin, velvety film which locks in moisture and supports the natural barrier. Its structure mimics skin lipids so it softens rough patches and eases post-cleansing tightness without leaving a greasy feel.

While not a superstar seen in every moisturizer it has built quiet popularity among brands that focus on barrier care and sensorially rich textures. You will often spot it in nourishing creams, overnight masks and after-sun balms where comfort is key.

Current data shows the ingredient is low risk for irritation or toxicity when used topically, making it safe for routine cosmetic use. As with any new skincare product a brief patch test on a small area is wise to confirm personal compatibility before full-face application.

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