Sodium Palm Kernelate

AKA: Palm Kernel Soap, Palm Oil Derivative
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Clean
OriginPalm kernel oil is derived from the Arecaceae family, native to tropical regions of West Africa and Southeast Asia. Cold-pressed from the kernels of the oil palm fruit. Saponified with sodium hydroxide to create the salt form used in cleansing products.
Fatty acids, palm kernel-oil, sodium salts
CAS #
61789-89-7
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.
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.
Viscosity Controlling
Surfactant Cleansing
Surfactant Emulsifying
Anti-Inflammatory
Antimicrobial
Fights Acne
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-off12–44%
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