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The facts: Isopropyl Palmitate is not banned worldwide, but some health agencies have flagged concerns. We can't tell you whether it's safe for your pregnancy — that's a conversation for your OB-GYN or midwife. What we can do is show you the regulatory facts and flag Isopropyl Palmitate on any product's label so you can decide with your provider. Commonly found in: Various drugstore foundations, Neutrogena Sheer Zinc sunscreens, Some OGX Hair products.
TL;DR: Isopropyl Palmitate is allowed in the EU and allowed in the US. Here's what to know if you're pregnant.
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level (regulatory) | low |
| Where it shows up | Various drugstore foundations, Neutrogena Sheer Zinc sunscreens, Some OGX Hair products |
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 Palmitate with citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice and is not pregnancy-specific medical guidance. Consult your OB-GYN or midwife for decisions about your pregnancy.
Isopropyl Palmitate is not currently banned worldwide, though some agencies have flagged concerns. See the sources below.
That's a decision for you and your OB-GYN or midwife — we don't give medical advice. What we can tell you is the regulatory status above. Many people choose to limit additives during pregnancy out of caution; bring this page and its sources to your next appointment.
Commonly found in Various drugstore foundations, Neutrogena Sheer Zinc sunscreens, Some OGX Hair products. Scan any product's barcode to check its label for Isopropyl Palmitate.
Isopropyl isostearate (lower comedogenicity) or squalane for a non-comedogenic emollient. See the pregnancy-conscious swaps below.
Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains Isopropyl Palmitate or other ingredients restricted overseas.
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Audited products that don't contain Isopropyl Palmitate.
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