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Answer: Isopropyl Palmitate is not currently banned worldwide, but health agencies have flagged concerns. The FDA still allows it in US cosmetics and personal-care products. Risk level: low. Commonly found in: Various drugstore foundations, Neutrogena Sheer Zinc sunscreens, Some OGX Hair products.
TL;DR: Isopropyl Palmitate is allowed in the EU but allowed in the US (emollient).
Reviewed for clarity & usefulness by the BannedPantry Parent Panel
INCI name ISOPROPYL PALMITATE. Also called IPP. CAS 142-91-6.
Other names: IPP
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | low |
| Where it shows up | Various drugstore foundations, Neutrogena Sheer Zinc sunscreens, Some OGX Hair products |
| CAS number | 142-91-6 |
Isopropyl palmitate is a synthetic ester of isopropyl alcohol and palmitic acid (a fatty acid from palm oil). It is a lightweight, non-greasy emollient that spreads easily on skin and hair.
Used to improve the skin feel of cosmetics — it reduces greasiness in oil-based formulas and acts as a solvent for other ingredients. Common in sunscreens, foundations, and hair oils.
Isopropyl palmitate is considered safe by the CIR. However, it is rated comedogenic (pore-clogging) on the comedogenicity scale — it has a comedogenicity rating of 4/5, meaning it is likely to trigger breakouts in acne-prone individuals. It is not a carcinogen, hormone disruptor, or systemic toxin. Adverse effects are limited to acne and folliculitis in susceptible users.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of Isopropyl Palmitatewith citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice. Regulatory status is not the same as a proven health effect — read the cited sources for their exact wording, and consult a doctor for decisions about your or your family's health.
Isopropyl isostearate (lower comedogenicity) or squalane for a non-comedogenic emollient.
It has a high comedogenicity rating and can clog pores in acne-prone individuals. If you are breakout-prone, look for products labeled non-comedogenic and avoid IPP in your leave-on formulas.
Yes, for most people. Comedogenicity is the main concern, not systemic safety. It is CIR-safe and FDA-permitted.
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