Does Ethylhexyl Palmitate Cause Breakouts On Your Face?

On a molecular level, ethylhexyl palmitate is a large hydrocarbon that is classified as a comedogenic ingredient, meaning it can clog pores. Clinical aesthetician and founder of Acne Clinic in San Diego Danielle Gronich shed more light on this ingredient with PureWow, "When an ingredient's molecule size is larger than our natural sebum, they block our pores, causing breakouts to form."

Gronich goes on to explain that about 90% of cosmetic products contain pore-clogging substances, including ethylhexyl palmitate. This is because of its long shelf-life. Companies want to maximize profits so why not? "Ethylhexyl palmitate is [...] most commonly added to the formula as an alternative to silicone," she states.

And if you're thinking that organic products are excluded from the list of perpetrators, you're wrong. They aren't always as innocent as you think, and can still lead to your breaking out in pimples and zits. Gronich recommends staying away from products that contain ethylhexyl palmitate altogether. It has a very high chance of clogging your pores, so don't be tempted to cave in.