What Is Hydrogenated Palm/Palm Kernel Glycerides?
Hydrogenated Palm/Palm Kernel Glycerides is a plant-derived blend of mono, di and triglycerides that comes from palm oil and palm kernel oil. After the oils are harvested from the fruit of the oil palm, they are put through hydrogenation, a process that adds hydrogen atoms to the natural fatty acids. This turns the liquid oils into more solid, saturated fats with a longer shelf life and a creamier feel. The hydrogenated fats are then reacted with glycerol to create a stable mixture of glycerides that performs well in skin care formulas.
Vegetable fats have been used for centuries to protect and soften skin, but early versions could turn rancid quickly. The introduction of hydrogenation in the early 1900s solved this problem, giving formulators a reliable source of stable plant lipids. As the beauty industry looked for palm-based alternatives to animal fats and petroleum waxes, Hydrogenated Palm/Palm Kernel Glycerides became a popular choice thanks to its smooth texture, mildness and versatility.
Today the ingredient is made in modern refineries where purified palm and palm kernel oils are hydrogenated under controlled temperature and pressure in the presence of a nickel catalyst. The finished glycerides are deodorized and filtered to remove impurities before being shipped to cosmetic manufacturers.
You will most often see Hydrogenated Palm/Palm Kernel Glycerides in moisturizers, creams, lotions, body butters, lip balms, bar soaps, cleansing balms, makeup foundations and some hair conditioners where it adds body, stability and a soft touch.
Hydrogenated Palm/Palm Kernel Glycerides’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasking ingredient brings several useful properties to a cosmetic formula:
- Skin Conditioning – Forms a light occlusive layer that slows water loss, leaving skin feeling soft, smooth and protected.
- Cleansing – Works as a gentle surfactant that helps loosen dirt, oil and makeup so they can be rinsed away without stripping the skin.
- Emulsifying – Acts as a bridge between oil and water, keeping creams and lotions from separating and giving them a rich yet stable texture.
Who Can Use Hydrogenated Palm/Palm Kernel Glycerides
Hydrogenated Palm/Palm Kernel Glycerides is usually suitable for normal, dry, combination and mature skin because it locks in moisture without a strong greasing effect. Oily or acne prone skin can often use it in lightweight formulas yet those who break out easily might find very rich concentrations feel heavy or pore clogging.
The ingredient is entirely plant derived which makes it appropriate for vegetarians and vegans.
Topical products with Hydrogenated Palm/Palm Kernel Glycerides are generally considered safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should have a doctor review new skincare products first.
The ingredient does not heighten photosensitivity so it will not make skin more vulnerable to sun damage. Routine daily sunscreen is still encouraged for overall protection.
Because it is free of added fragrance and color on its own, the ingredient tends to be well tolerated by people with fragrance sensitivities although the full formula should always be checked for other potential irritants.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions can differ from person to person so the following list covers potential side effects that could occur although most users will not experience them at typical cosmetic levels.
- Mild skin congestion in very oily or acne prone skin
- Occasional contact irritation such as redness itching or slight burning
- Allergic response in individuals with a specific sensitivity to palm derivatives
If any unwanted reaction develops stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 3/5
Hydrogenated Palm/Palm Kernel Glycerides sits in the middle of the scale because its fatty acids are quite saturated and can form a film on the skin. In light lotions this film is usually thin and breathable, but in rich creams or balms it can become heavy enough to trap oil and dead cells. Most people with balanced or dry skin tolerate it well, yet those who are very oily or breakout prone may notice clogged pores if the concentration is high or if several other rich ingredients are present.
In short it is sometimes suitable for acne-prone users, especially in lightweight formulas, but may be risky in heavy products or layered routines.
Formula texture, the presence of other emollients and overall skincare habits will influence how comedogenic it feels in real-world use.
Summary
Hydrogenated Palm/Palm Kernel Glycerides conditions skin by laying down a soft, occlusive layer that slows moisture loss. It helps cleanse because its glyceride structure can grab both water and oil, lifting grime without harsh surfactants. As an emulsifier it keeps oils and water mixed so creams stay smooth and stable.
Its steady performance, mild feel and plant origin have made it a common pick in moisturizers, lip balms, bar soaps and makeup, though some brands avoid it due to palm sustainability debates.
The ingredient is generally safe with a low risk of irritation or systemic harm. As with any new product a small patch test is a smart way to spot personal sensitivities before full-face use.