Phosphatidic Acid
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: 2-Dipalmitoyl-sn-glycerol-3-phosphoric acid, PA(16:0/16:0), GlyTouCan:G14789MJ, ((2R)-2, 3-bis(hexadecanoyloxy)propoxy)phosphonic acid, 2-Dipalmitoyl-sn-glycerol 3-phosphate
Synthetic
Emollient
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Skin Conditioner
Barrier Lipid
Acid
Not Clean
Phosphatidic Acid is the phospholipid in which one of the primary hydroxyl groups of glycerin is esterified with phosphoric acid; and the two remaining hydroxyl groups are esterified with long chain, saturated or unsaturated fatty acids
Formula
C35H69O8P
Mol. Weight
648.9
CAS #
7091-44-3
Form
Liquid
State
Solid
Functions
Emulsion Stabilising
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Skin Conditioning
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
Emollient
Fills in the tiny cracks between skin cells to make everything feel smooth and soft. The "silky finish" ingredient.
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Locks In Moisture
Traditional Use
A naturally occurring phospholipid found in cell membranes; historically part of traditional fat-based skincare preparations. Modern skincare uses it as a skin-conditioning and hydrating agent derived from plant sources.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
Dryness
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed1 review →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR