Product description

Cetyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol with 16 carbons (C16), obtained from vegetable oils (coconut or palm oil). In cosmetics it is not used as a classic “alcohol” (ethanol), but as an emollient, stabilizer and thickener. It gives emulsions a creamy texture, improves spreadability and supports the stability of formulations. Thanks to its properties, it is an ideal raw material for the production of creams, body lotions, conditioners and lip balms.

Key benefits:

• Provides viscosity and stability to emulsions.

• Improves sensory properties – products are softer, creamier and pleasant on the skin.

• Acts as an emollient – leaves the skin soft and hydrated.

• Reduces tackiness in formulations and improves their spreadability.

• Improves hair condition – makes detangling easier and adds shine.

Suitable for products such as:

• facial and body creams, lotions and balms

• hair conditioners and masks

• decorative cosmetics (lipsticks, make-up)

• solid shampoos and body butters

• sunscreen and protective products

Use in formulation:

• Solubility: insoluble in water, soluble in alcohols and oils.

• Recommended dosage: usually 2 – 10 % depending on the product type.

• Incorporation: added to the oil phase, which is heated to 60 – 70 °C to achieve melting and subsequent homogenization.

• Thermal stability: stable under standard cosmetic processing conditions (up to 70 °C).

Cetyl alcohol is an irreplaceable raw material for stable, luxurious-feeling emulsions and hair care products that combines functional and sensory properties.

Safety rating of the raw material according to EWG: 1 – low risk

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

Is cetyl alcohol as irritating as regular alcohol?
No. Unlike ethanol or isopropanol, cetyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol with emollient properties and is not drying.

Can it be used in natural cosmetics?
Yes, plant-derived cetyl alcohol is permitted in certified natural and organic cosmetics (e.g. COSMOS, ECOCERT).

What is the difference between cetyl and stearyl alcohol?
Cetyl alcohol has a shorter carbon chain (C16), while stearyl alcohol is C18. They are often used together in the form of cetearyl alcohol, which combines the properties of both and offers better stability and texture.

More detailed information about the product quality can be found in the certificate of analysis, which we update with each new batch.

All supplied raw materials are of cosmetic grade, not suitable for internal use.

Use appropriate protective equipment when handling.

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