Palm Kernel Acid

Palm Kernel Acid 1
photograph
AKA: Lauric Acid, Palm Kernel Fatty Acid
Plant-Derived Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Acid
Clean
OriginNative to West Africa, Southeast Asia. Derived from palm kernel oil, a natural fat extracted from the kernels of oil palm trees (Arecaceae) grown in West Africa and Southeast Asia. Produced through saponification or hydrolysis of palm kernel oil to create free fatty acids.
Fatty acids, palm kernel-oil
CAS #
101403-98-9
Form
Powder
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Functions
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Removes Impurities
Emulsifier
Antioxidant Protection
Reduces Inflammation
Fights Bacteria
Removes dirt and impurities
Mixes oil and water
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed2 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
EWG
1
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
Concentration Guide
Leave-onNot reported
Rinse-off0.2–12%
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · report published 2017
Regulatory Status
USA✔ permitted
EU⚠ restricted
JAPAN⚠ restricted
CANADA⚠ restricted
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR