A palm kernel oil used as an emollient and hair conditioner.
What it is
Elaeis oleifera kernel oil is an oil expressed from palm kernels. The INCI name refers to the American oil palm, Elaeis oleifera, whereas the CosIng description names the African oil palm, Elaeis guineensis; both belong to the palm family (Arecaceae). CosIng lists it as an emollient and hair-conditioning ingredient.
Where it is used
Found in a small number of products, such as soaps, hair care and body care products.
Limits of interpretation
The INCI list shows which ingredients are present, not how much of each. Above 1%, ingredients are listed in descending order of weight; below 1% the order is free.
As a natural material, its fatty acid composition can vary between batches.
Functions
- Skin conditioning – emollient
- Acting as lubricants on the skin surface providing the skin with a soft and smooth appearance.
- Hair conditioning
- Enhancing the appearance and feel of hair. Leaving the hair easy to comb, supple, soft and shiny and/or imparting volume, lightness, gloss, texture, etc.
EU regulation
This ingredient is not listed in the annexes of Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 in the CosIng data.