Cetearyl Alcohol, 100 g

Name: Cetearyl Alcohol, 100 g
SKU: EM001_100
Price: 2.49 EUR
Availability: InStock

Cetearyl Alcohol, 100 g

Cetearyl Alcohol is a blend of fatty alcohols (mainly C16 cetyl and C18 stearyl alcohol) used in cosmetics as a co-emulsifier, thickener and emollient – it is n... read more

In stock:

411 pkgs.

Product code:

EM001_100

Best before date:

11/2028

Batch:

10770

2,49 € incl. VAT

24,90 € / kg

SKLADOM pkgs.

Other product variants

82 pkgs.

Cetearyl Alcohol, 500 g Code: EM001_500

9,99 € (19,98 € / kg)

SKLADOM pkgs.

41 pkgs.

Cetearyl Alcohol, 1 kg Code: EM001_1000

14,99 € (14,99 € / kg)

SKLADOM pkgs.

Product description

Cetearyl Alcohol is a blend of fatty alcohols (mainly C16 cetyl and C18 stearyl alcohol) used in cosmetics as a co-emulsifier, thickener and emollient – it is not an “alcohol” of the ethanol type.
It is produced by processing fatty raw materials (often of plant origin, e.g. from oils) – fatty acids/derivatives are technologically processed (hydrogenation/reduction) into fatty alcohols and then fractionally blended into a stable mixture.
In emulsions it helps build a creamy, “fuller” texture, reduces wateriness, supports stability and improves the sensorial feel during application. In anhydrous products (balms, solid butters) it increases firmness and improves slip.

Key benefits

Co-emulsifier – supports emulsion stability and improves the consistency of creams and lotions.
Oil phase thickener – increases viscosity, reduces the “watery” impression and strengthens the structure.
Emollient – softens the skin and improves slip.
Sensorial improvement – creamier touch, better spreadability, lower “tackiness” with a suitable formulation composition.
More stable texture – helps limit separation and viscosity fluctuation in emulsions.

Suitable for products such as

Creams, body lotions, butters (O/W and W/O – as support for emulsification and texture).
Conditioners, hair masks (hair softening, better detangling, “creamy” feel).
Solid balms, cleansing balms, cleansing butters (firming and better slip).
Deodorants and solid/creamy body products (improved spreadability and consistency).
Shaving emulsions and aftershave products (fuller, more stable texture).

Use in formulation

Soluble in: oils and the oil phase; insoluble in water.
Miscible with: vegetable oils, butters, esters and other lipophilic components; suitable for anhydrous products as well as emulsions.
Compatible with: most emulsifiers (especially O/W), where it acts as a co-emulsifier and consistency agent.
Dosage (guideline): 0.5–3 % for gentle thickening and texture improvement; 3–8 % for more pronounced structuring and a creamy texture; in balms the level is adjusted according to the desired hardness.
Processing method: add to the oil phase and melt (typically at 60–70 °C) together with oils/butters; then proceed according to the type of emulsion and the selected emulsifier.

Safety and storage

Intended for cosmetic use; avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes.
During handling, observe standard hygiene rules and use clean tools to avoid introducing contamination into the raw material.
Store in a tightly closed container, in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and sources of heat.
For sensitive skin, we recommend testing the finished product on a small area (especially with higher levels of waxes/butters and fragrance).

Physical properties

Appearance: white to cream flakes/pastilles (waxy solid substance).
Character: fatty alcohol – increases viscosity and forms a creamy structure in emulsions.
Thermal behaviour: melts in the oil phase (processed at higher temperatures to dissolve completely).

FAQ

What is the difference between cetearyl alcohol and cetyl alcohol?

Cetearyl alcohol is a mixture (C16 + C18), whereas cetyl alcohol is predominantly C16. In practice, cetearyl often gives a “fuller” and more stable texture, while cetyl tends to be somewhat lighter; in formulations they can be partially substituted for each other depending on the goal.

Can I use it without an emulsifier, only as a thickener?

Yes, in anhydrous products (balms, solid butters) it works very well as a consistency agent. In products containing water, however, it will not by itself provide a stable emulsion – an emulsifier is required for that.

Why does the viscosity of my emulsion change after cooling, or why does a “waxy” feel appear?

Fatty alcohols form a structure that stabilises during the cooling and maturation of the emulsion. A change in viscosity is common; it helps to fine-tune the percentage of cetearyl alcohol, the oil/water ratio and the type of emulsifier.

Is it suitable for conditioners if I am using cationic components?

Yes, it is often combined with cationic conditioning components as a texturising and stabilising ingredient. It is important to follow the correct processing method (melting in the oil phase and subsequent processing according to the formulation).

How can I replace it if I don’t have it in stock?

In simple formulations, cetyl or stearyl alcohol, or a combination of both, can partially serve as a substitute. In emulsions, however, it may be necessary to fine-tune the emulsifier and viscosity as well, because the texture and stability may change.

If you want to learn more about the benefits and use of O/W and W/O emulsions, read our article O/W alebo W/O?.
Also have a look at other emulsifiers offered by Handymade.sk.