CAS number 67762-27-0
INCI name CETEARYL ALCOHOL
Cetearyl alcohol is a blend of cetyl and stearyl alcohol, creating a waxy, white substance commonly used in cosmetics. It enhances the texture and thickness of products while offering moisturizing benefits. Unlike many alcohols that can dry out the skin, cetearyl alcohol helps retain moisture and combat dryness.
Purpose
Cetearyl alcohol plays a versatile role in cosmetic formulations, serving as a bulking agent to add volume and consistency while also acting as a skin-conditioning ingredient that softens and hydrates the skin. It contributes to the smooth texture of products, enhancing their feel upon application.
Origin
Cetearyl alcohol is a blend of cetyl and stearyl alcohol, primarily sourced from plants like coconut, palm, and vegetable oils. It can also be synthetically produced in a laboratory.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | Cetearyl alcohol |
| Type | Fatty alcohol, emulsifier, thickener, emollient |
| Source | Derived from coconut/palm oil or synthetic |
| PH | 5.5 – 7.0 |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water, soluble in oils |
| Color | White/off-white |
| Odor | mild to odorless |
| Physical state | Waxy solid |
| Concentration | 1-10% |
| Boiling point | 250-270°C |
Moisturizing & Skin Conditioning
Unlike traditional drying alcohols, cetearyl alcohol acts as an emollient, helping to lock in moisture and prevent skin dehydration. It forms a protective barrier on the skin, reducing moisture loss and improving overall hydration. This makes it especially beneficial for dry and sensitive skin types.
Emulsifying & Stabilizing Properties
Cetearyl alcohol plays a crucial role as an emulsifier, helping to blend oil and water-based ingredients into a smooth, stable formulation. It prevents separation and ensures the product maintains its consistency over time, making it a key component in lotions, creams, and conditioners.
Texture Enhancer & Thickener
One of its primary functions is to improve the feel and application of cosmetic products. It adds thickness and creaminess to formulations, giving them a luxurious, smooth texture. This makes products easier to apply while enhancing their overall effectiveness.
Non-Irritating & Skin-Friendly
Cetearyl alcohol is well-tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive skin. Unlike harsher alcohols that can strip away moisture, it provides a soothing and conditioning effect, making it suitable for use in baby care, sensitive skin formulations, and hypoallergenic products.
Derived from Natural & Synthetic Sources
This ingredient is commonly derived from plant-based sources such as coconut oil, palm oil, and vegetable oils, making it an eco-friendly option. However, it can also be synthetically produced in laboratories, offering flexibility for different formulations.
Enhances Product Performance
By improving the spreadability and absorption of skincare and haircare products, cetearyl alcohol ensures an even application. It contributes to longer shelf life by stabilizing emulsions and preventing ingredient separation.
Superior Moisturizing & Skin Conditioning
Unlike traditional alcohols that dry out the skin, cetearyl alcohol acts as an emollient, helping to retain moisture and keep the skin hydrated. It creates a protective barrier that locks in moisture, preventing dryness and improving skin softness and suppleness. This makes it an excellent ingredient for dry and sensitive skin formulations.
Effective Emulsifier & Stabilizer
Cetearyl alcohol ensures oil and water-based ingredients mix well, preventing separation and enhancing product stability. This is crucial for emulsions such as creams, lotions, and conditioners, ensuring they maintain a smooth and uniform consistency over time.
Enhances Texture & Thickens Formulations
By improving the thickness and viscosity of formulations, cetearyl alcohol gives creams, lotions, and hair products a rich, luxurious feel. It enhances the spreadability of skincare and haircare products, making them easy to apply and absorb.
Soothing & Non-Irritating
Unlike harsh alcohols that can be drying or irritating, cetearyl alcohol is gentle on the skin and suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin. It is commonly used in dermatologically tested and hypoallergenic products.
Natural & Synthetic Availability
Cetearyl alcohol can be derived from plant-based sources such as coconut, palm, and vegetable oils, making it a natural and eco-friendly choice. However, it can also be synthetically produced to meet specific formulation needs.
Improve Spreadability & Product Performance
This ingredient enhances how well products glide onto the skin or hair, allowing for smooth and even application. It helps creams and lotions feel less greasy while improving absorption, leading to better overall performance.
Prolongs Shelf Life
By stabilizing emulsions and preventing ingredient separation, cetearyl alcohol extends the shelf life of cosmetic formulations, ensuring long-term product effectiveness and consistency.
Adds Creaminess to Haircare Products
In shampoos and conditioners, cetearyl alcohol improves texture and enhances detangling properties, making hair feel softer, smoother, and more manageable. It helps reduce frizz and adds a conditioning effect to leave hair looking healthy.
Applications of Cetearyl Alcohol in Cosmetics & Personal Care
Cetearyl alcohol is a widely used ingredient in various cosmetic, skincare, and haircare products due to its multifunctional properties. Here are its key applications:
Skincare Products
- Moisturizers & Face Creams – Acts as an emollient to lock in moisture, improving hydration and texture.
- Body Lotions & Butters – Enhances spreadability, leaving the skin soft and nourished.
- Anti-Aging Creams – Helps improve consistency and absorption, contributing to smoother and plumper skin.
- Sunscreens & BB Creams – Ensures an even, smooth application while stabilizing the formula.
- Lip Balms & Lipsticks – Adds a creamy texture and improves stability for better wear.
Haircare Products
- Shampoos & Conditioners – Enhances creaminess, improves detangling, and adds a conditioning effect.
- Hair Masks & Treatments – Helps hydrate and repair dry, damaged hair while improving product consistency.
- Styling Products (Gels, Mousses, Creams) – Provides smooth application and improves hold without making hair stiff.
Makeup & Decorative Cosmetics
- Foundations & Concealers – Improves texture, spreadability, and stability for a seamless application.
- Powder-Based Products (Blush, Highlighter, Eyeshadow) – Helps bind ingredients together for a smooth finish.
- Mascaras & Eyeliners – Adds thickness and improves formula adherence for long-lasting wear.
Cleansing & Bath Products
- Facial Cleansers & Body Washes – Acts as a mild surfactant, helping to cleanse while keeping skin hydrated.
- Makeup Removers – Enhances the solubility of oil-based ingredients for effective cleansing.
- Bath Oils & Creams – Improves texture and adds a moisturizing effect to prevent skin dryness.
Baby Care Products
- Baby Lotions & Creams – Provides gentle hydration and smoothness for delicate skin.
- Baby Shampoos & Conditioners – Softens hair and prevents irritation on sensitive scalps.
Personal Hygiene & Grooming Products
- Shaving Creams & Aftershaves – Provides a creamy, smooth consistency that prevents skin irritation.
- Deodorants & Antiperspirants – Improves texture and application for long-lasting wear.
