What it is
Cetyl-PG Hydroxyethyl Palmitamide is a synthetic lipid designed to mimic the natural ceramides of the skin barrier, often described as a pseudo-ceramide. It is used in moisturizing skincare and sunscreens to soften skin and help reinforce the lipid barrier, supporting hydration. It is best known from barrier-care lines that pair it with humectants and other conditioning lipids.
Safety & warnings
As a skin-identical-style barrier lipid it is well tolerated and intended for dry and sensitive skin, with low irritation and sensitization potential. It is not a fragrance allergen and is not considered comedogenic at use levels.
Origin & sourcing
Synthetic; a laboratory-made amide lipid structurally analogous to skin ceramides.
Questions everyone asks
What is a pseudo-ceramide?
It is a synthetic lipid like Cetyl-PG Hydroxyethyl Palmitamide built to mimic the skin's natural ceramides and help support its barrier.
Who is this ingredient good for?
It is commonly used in products aimed at dry or sensitive skin to soften the skin and reinforce its moisture barrier.