Palm Oil in Skincare: The Unexpected Ingredient

What is palm oil, and where does it come from?

Palm oil is a type of vegetable oil made from the fruit of oil palm trees. These trees grow in tropical rainforests and thrive in countries on the equator. Originally from Africa, oil palm plantations are now found in 42 countries. However, Indonesia and Malaysia dominate production, together accounting for about 90% of the global supply.

The problem with palm oil

Palm oil production poses a major threat to rainforests. Huge areas of virgin rainforest are being cleared to make way for palm oil plantations. This destroys the habitats of many animals, critically endangering species like orangutans, tigers, and rhinos.

Deforestation also harms local communities, who are often displaced and exploited for cheap labour.

Additionally, burning forests to create plantations releases harmful greenhouse gases, contributing to climate change and causing air pollution that impacts both the environment and human health.

What is palm oil used for?

Palm oil is found in countless products. According to Greenpeace, it’s in half of the processed foods you buy at the supermarket. It’s also commonly used in cleaning supplies, fuel, and cosmetics like skincare, haircare and make-up.

Palm oil in cosmetics

Palm oil plays a significant role in many cosmetic and hair care products. Here are some of the most common uses:

Skincare

• ‍Moisturisers and lotions: Palm oil helps mix water and oil, creates a smooth texture, and leaves skin feeling soft.
• ‍Cleansers, body washes and soaps: It helps these products to clean effectively and to create a foam.

Make-up

• Lipstick: Creates a smooth, shiny finish.
• Foundation: Improves texture and application.‍
• Eyeshadow and blush: Helps bind ingredients and improves texture.

Hair care

• Shampoo: Palm oil makes it foamy.
• Conditioner: Helps blend ingredients and leaves hair feeling silky.

How do you know which products contain palm oil?

Identifying palm oil in cosmetics can be tricky. While food labels often list palm oil clearly, cosmetics use palm oil derivatives, which can appear under hundreds of different names.

You can find a comprehensive list of alternative names for palm oil here (© Bev Luff 2009).

Researching every ingredient takes time. The easiest way to make sure you’re avoiding palm oil is to choose products with a Certified Palm Oil Free Trademark. Look for the trademark logo on product labels to shop confidently.

Palm oil is widely used in cosmetics, but it’s essential to consider its environmental impact. By choosing certified palm oil free products, you can help protect rainforests, wildlife, and communities while supporting a more sustainable beauty industry.

I’m very proud that my small natural skincare business is the first skincare company in the world to attain the Palm Oil Free Certification Trademark. Discover Amaranthine's range of certified palm oil free skincare products, all lovingly made my myself in my Glasgow studio.

I encourage you to research the products you buy and choose those that reflect your values.