Isopropyl palmitate (IPP) is a thickening and emollient agent. It is a chemical derived primarily from palm acid, but also to a lesser extent, from coconut. Primarily used in the cosmetics industry in skin products, IPP's main function is to make the skin soft and shiny. The most common use of IPP is in moisturizers. Its greasy feel forms a light layer on the skin and seeps into it. Because of its viscosity, IPP is also a binding agent for many skincare products, and is also used on the scalp. Despite its widespread use, there are some dangers associated with IPP.
Skin Irritation
can cause skin irritations. IPP use, especially in products that also contain synthetic alcohol and isopropyl alcohol, can cause a number of potential skin problems, including acne and dermatitis.
Clogged Pores
Isopropyl palmitate can clog the pores, resulting in the appearance of dermatological conditions such as whiteheads and blackheads. The thickness of the chemicals in IPP can deprive the skin of nutrients such as as oxygen. If the skin doesn't breathe, your pores can become clogged, and healthy skin cells can die. This can also lead to dry, flaky skin.
Environmental Dangers
While its effects on the human body are obvious, IPP also creates some environemntal dangers. Isopropyl palmitate is directly derived from palm, which is the staple food of a prominent species of primates, the orangutan. The rush to procure palm, triggered by the global cosmetics industry's clamor for its use as an ingredient, has devastated vast areas of palm growth around the world, including rainforsests. These rainforests are the traditional dwelling place of the orangutans. Deprived of their main source of subsistence, they are dying from hunger. The over-harvesting of palm could lead to the endangerment and even possible extinction of orangutans.
Tags: Isopropyl palmitate, , from palm