Palmitoylethanolamide
What is Palmitoylethanolamide?
Palmitoylethanolamide (CAS 544-31-0), commonly abbreviated as PEA, is a fatty acid amide produced from palmitic acid and ethanolamine. Also known as palmitic acid monoethanolamide.
Where is Palmitoylethanolamide used?
- Pharmaceutical formulations: active ingredient in oral and topical dosage forms
- Personal care: emulsifier and foam stabilizer in cleansing systems, shampoos and skin creams
- Cosmetic formulations: supports emulsification of oil-water systems, reducing the need for additional co-emulsifiers
- Industrial surface treatment: wetting and dispersing agent that improves substrate adhesion and coating uniformity
Good to know: Regulatory-grade purity and consistent particle size are critical sourcing criteria. Micronized and ultramicronized grades differ in particle size distribution and bioavailability profile, a key specification decision for formulators.
Commercial specifications
- Micronized and ultramicronized grades
- Batches meet USP and EP standards
Other Names (Synonyms)
Palmitoyl-EA|Palmitinsaeure-beta-hydroxyethylamid|Palmitic acid monoethanolamide|Palmitamide MEA|N-Hexadecyl-ethanolamine|N-hexadecanoylethanolamine|N-(2-Hydroxyethyl)palmitamide|N-(2-Hydroxyethyl)hexadecanamide|PEA