Cetyl Alcohol
Cetyl alcohol (INCI: Cetyl Alcohol; CAS# 36653-82-4) is a fatty alcohol, chemically known as Hexadecan-1-Ol, that functions as an emollient, viscosity controller, and emulsion stabilizer in cosmetic formulations. Unlike drying short-chain alcohols, it is a non-drying, waxy solid that helps thicken products and aids in blending water and oil phases. It can be derived from natural sources such as coconut or palm kernel oil. Its official CosIng functions include emollient, emulsifying, emulsion stabilising, foam boosting, masking, opacifying, surfactant, and viscosity controlling.
Cetyl alcohol makes skin feel smooth by acting as an emollient, helps stabilize and thicken cosmetic formulations, and assists in keeping water and oil components blended together. It is considered a skin-conditioning ingredient that contributes to a pleasant product texture without drying the skin.
Has an irritancy rating of 2 (on an unspecified scale) per the source; individuals with known fatty alcohol sensitivities should patch-test.
