Isooctyl palmitate

Isooctyl palmitate (CAS 1341-38-4) is a fatty acid ester formed from palmitic acid and isooctyl alcohol, also known as isooctyl hexadecanoate and sold under trade names including Nikkol IOP and O 16. It carries no E-code designation and is not classified as a food additive.

In personal care formulations, isooctyl palmitate functions as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent, reducing transepidermal water loss by forming a breathable occlusive layer. It also serves as a carrier solvent in topical pharmaceutical preparations, improving the spreadability and skin penetration of active ingredients without leaving a heavy residue.

Isooctyl palmitate is available in cosmetic and pharmaceutical grades and is subject to REACH registration requirements for EU-based suppliers. Procurement quantities are typically offered in drums and intermediate bulk containers. Buyers should request a certificate of analysis confirming ester value, acid value, and purity specifications relevant to their application.