Cetyl Alcohol, 200 g

Cetyl alcohol gives creams and lotions body and holds them together. In a formulation it works as a co-emulsifier, emollient and emulsion stabiliser: it thickens the oil phase, supports the main emulsifier and leaves a smooth feeling on the skin without a heavy greasy sensation. It belongs to the fatty alcohols – it shares only the name with ethanol and does not dry out the skin.

When heated it melts and blends completely with oils, butters and waxes. Depending on the amount, it changes the texture from a light lotion to a rich cream, which is why it is a staple in the production of emulsions and anhydrous balms.

What cetyl alcohol does in a formula

• Stabiliser and consistency agent – increases the viscosity of the emulsion and gives it body; with the same oil content, you get a cream instead of a liquid lotion.
• Co-emulsifier – reinforces the interface between the oil and water phase, helps the main emulsifier keep the emulsion stable and reduces the risk of phase separation.
• Emollient – forms a thin softening film on the skin and promotes a smooth feel after application.
• Skin-feel modifier – reduces the greasy impression of richer oils and butters; spreadability becomes drier and smoother.

Use in a formulation

It is added to the oil phase and processed hot at above 50 °C, until it is completely melted together with the oils, butters and emulsifier. The water phase is heated to a similar temperature, both phases are combined with constant stirring, and the emulsion is then left to cool with slow stirring. It is insoluble in water, miscible with oils and only partially soluble in alcohol. It is therefore not suitable for purely aqueous products, tonics or sprays.

The recommended usage level is 1 – 10 % of the total weight of the formula. Lower levels will only slightly refine the texture and support the stability of a light lotion. Higher levels will noticeably thicken the emulsion and are suitable for firmer creams, conditioners and colour cosmetics.

In anhydrous products – balms, sticks and whipped butters – it adds firmness and a smooth slip to the blend. It dissolves directly in the melted butters and waxes.

Suitable for products such as

• Creams and body lotions – as a consistency agent and support for the emulsifier in O/W emulsions for face, body, hands and feet.
• Conditioners and hair masks – adds a creamy texture and softens dry and damaged hair.
• Lip balms and solid balms – firms the anhydrous blend and softens the waxy feel.
• Colour cosmetics – lipsticks, solid foundations and sticks, where it influences hardness and slip.
• Creamy shower and bath preparations – thickens rinse-off emulsions and softens the skin during washing.
• Children's cosmetics – suitable for baby and sensitive skin, in both leave-on and rinse-off products.

Good to know

Cetyl alcohol does not preserve. Every emulsion with a water phase needs its own preservation system. The substance is not classified as hazardous under the CLP Regulation and is readily biodegradable. Compatibility is listed without restrictions; it is nevertheless advisable to verify the stability of a specific formula in the finished product, particularly at higher levels.

Frequently asked questions