Isostearyl Palmitate Good Emollient Hydration Isostearyl Palmitate at a glance Ester of isostearyl alcohol and palmitic acid Used as an emollient and binding agent Impart a lightweight, silky emolliency to formulas Ruled safe as used in cosmetics Isostearyl Palmitate description Isostearyl palmitate is the ester of isostearyl alcohol (a type of fatty alcohol) and the fatty acid palmitic acid. In cosmetics, it’s used as an emollient and binding agent. According to one of its suppliers, isostearyl palmitate is supposed to impart a silky, lightweight emolliency with a non-greasy feel. Isostearyl palmitate has been ruled safe as used in cosmetics by the independent Cosmetic Ingredient Review. Typical usage levels in leave-on and rinse-off products range from 1–5%, with amounts of 3% bringing the desired silky emolliency. Related ingredients: Palmitic Acid Ester