INCI · emollient · CIR review pending · used in 37 products
Cetearyl Alcohol
Cetearyl Alcohol is a fatty alcohol that is a mixture of cetyl (C16) and stearyl (C18) alcohol. It is an extremely common multitasker ingredient used in creams and lotions, typically at 2–3% concentration. Unlike low-molecular-weight alcohols (e.g., denatured alcohol), it has a long oil-soluble tail that makes it non-drying and non-irritating. It helps stabilize oil-water emulsions but does not function as a standalone emulsifier.
Evidence level
strongEWG score
—Comedogenic
2/5Category
emollient● Benefits
Provides a soft, smooth skin feel as an emollient and adds body/viscosity to cream and lotion formulas. Helps stabilize emulsions and is well-tolerated by skin due to its non-drying, non-irritating fatty alcohol nature.
hydratingbarrier-supportemulsifying
● Cautions
