TEGO Alkanol 1618 MB, Cetearyl Alcohol, 100 g

Cetearyl alkohol TEGO Alkanol 1618 MB gives creams and lotions thickness and holds the emulsion together. It is added to the oil phase of creams, body lotions, conditioners and balms as a co-emulsifier that supports the primary emulsifier and gives the product a creamy character. On the skin it also acts as an emollient: it softens the feel after application and reduces the greasy touch of oils.

The raw material of plant origin is produced by hydrogenation. Palm sources are certified under the RSPO Mass Balance system, which monitors responsible cultivation. The substance is readily biodegradable and is not classified as hazardous under the CLP regulation.

Key benefits

• Thickness and consistency – a low dosage thickens a liquid emulsion to a lotion; higher dosages result in a rich cream or balm.
• Emulsion stability – as a co-emulsifier it supports the primary emulsifier and reduces the risk of phase separation over time.
• Emollient effect – softens the skin and improves spreadability; the feel after application is less greasy than with oils alone.
• Broad compatibility – works with anionic, cationic, non-ionic and amphoteric surfactants and at acidic, neutral and alkaline pH.
• Plant-based origin – free from PEG, silicones, sulfates and parabens, suitable for children's cosmetics and intimate hygiene products.

Use in formulation

Cetearyl alkohol is weighed together with oils, butters and the emulsifier into the oil phase. The phase is heated above 70 °C so that all solid components melt completely, and only then combined with the water phase heated to the same temperature. The emulsion is cooled with constant stirring. The thickness of the product becomes fully apparent only after complete cooling, so it is worth evaluating the final consistency after a delay and adjusting the dosage in the next batch.

The recommended dosage range is 1 – 25 %. For light lotions and conditioners the lower end of the range is sufficient; thick creams, hair masks and solid preparations use higher proportions. The substance is oil-soluble, partially alcohol-soluble and does not dissolve in water, so it cannot be added to a purely aqueous toner or gel.

In anhydrous products, such as lip balms or solid deodorants, it adds firmness and a smooth glide. It can also be added to the fat base of soap.

Suitable for products such as

• Face and body creams – basic consistency component of O/W emulsions, suitable for all skin types including sensitive.
• Conditioners and hair masks – together with cationic components creates a creamy base that makes combing dry and damaged hair easier.
• Lip balms and solid sticks – firmness and smooth application in anhydrous formulations.
• Antiperspirants and deodorants – component of both cream and solid forms.
• Shower creams and rinse-off products – thickens the product and softens the feel after washing.
• Children's cosmetics and intimate hygiene – compatible with sensitive skin, does not leave a heavy film when dosed correctly.

What is good to know when formulating

Cetearyl alkohol is not a standalone emulsifier. In most formulations it requires a primary emulsifier with which it works. It cannot create or maintain an emulsion on its own. The exception is anhydrous products, where it serves as a thickener and emollient.

At higher dosages a waxy or whitish film may appear on the skin, especially in combination with butters. If you want a rich cream with a lighter feel, replace part of the cetearyl alkohol with another consistency agent or add a light ester.

The temperature determines the outcome. Insufficiently melted raw material will leave granules or lumps in the finished product that can no longer be mixed out after cooling. Combine the phases when both are at approximately the same temperature above 70 °C.

The product does not contain preservatives and has no preserving effect. Every emulsion with a water phase requires a suitable preservative, which is added after cooling according to the instructions for the preservative in question.

Frequently asked questions