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Cetyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol derived from natural fats and oils, typically coconut oil or palm oil, though synthetic sources also exist. It is a waxy, white, solid at room temperature and is insoluble in water but soluble in oils and alcohols. Cetyl alcohol is used widely in cosmetic and personal care formulations for its emollient, emulsifying, thickening, and stabilizing properties.
INCI Name: Cetyl Alcohol
Chemical Formula: C₁₆H₃₄O
CAS Number: 36653-82-4
EINECS Number: 253-149-0
Synonyms: 1-Hexadecanol, Hexadecanol, Palmityl Alcohol
Physical and Chemical Properties
Property | Value |
Appearance | White, waxy solid (flakes or pellets) |
Melting Point | ~49–55°C (120–131°F) |
Solubility | Insoluble in water; soluble in oils and alcohol |
Odor | Mild or odorless |
pH (in solution) | Neutral (non-ionic) |
Usage Guidelines
Typical Usage Rate: 0.5%–6% depending on function (emolliency vs. thickening).
Phase: Add to the oil phase and heat to melt.
Compatibility: Works well across a wide pH range (3–10) and in most emulsified systems.
Processing Note: Requires heating above melting point and proper blending for even distribution.
Source and Production
Originally discovered in sperm whale oil (hence its name from cetacea), cetyl alcohol is now primarily obtained from vegetable sources like palm kernel or coconut oil. It is produced through the hydrogenation of fatty acids or esters, most commonly from palmityl acid.
Functions and Applications
In cosmetic and pharmaceutical formulations, cetyl alcohol serves multiple purposes:
Emollient: Softens and conditions the skin, giving a smooth, velvety feel.
Thickener & Viscosity Modifier: Enhances body and structure in creams, lotions, and butters.
Stabilizer: Helps stabilize emulsions by supporting the emulsification system.
Co-emulsifier: Often used in conjunction with primary emulsifiers to improve texture and spreadability.
Opacifier: Adds a creamy or opaque appearance to formulations.
Alternatives
Alternatives | Notes |
Cetearyl Alcohol | A blend of cetyl and stearyl alcohols; similar performance with slightly more viscosity. |
Behenyl Alcohol | Higher molecular weight; waxier, firmer feel. |
Stearic Acid | Offers more structure but less slip/emolliency. |
Butylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate | For lightweight emollient effect without waxy texture. |
Functional Substitutes for Cetyl Alcohol
Use Case | Common Alternatives | Notes |
Emollient (Skin Softener) | Cetearyl Alcohol, Caprylic/Capric Triglycerides | Cetearyl offers similar glide; triglycerides provide a lighter feel and quick absorption. |
Thickener / Viscosity Modifier | Stearyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Behenyl Alcohol | Stearyl and behenyl provide firmer viscosity; cetearyl is a 50/50 blend for balanced texture. |
Co-Emulsifier / Stabilizer | Glyceryl Stearate, Polawax, Emulsifying Wax NF | Pair with a primary emulsifier; provides creamy consistency and improved emulsion stability. |
Creamy Texture in Hair Conditioners | BTMS-50, Stearamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Cetearyl Alcohol | BTMS adds detangling and conditioning; use with caution in leave-ins for texture. |
Mild Opacifier / Richness Enhancer | Stearic Acid, Myristyl Myristate, Lauryl Alcohol | Myristyl Myristate gives a soft, cushiony feel; stearic acid gives a denser, creamy finish. |
Palm-Free/Vegan Emollient | Hydrogenated Rapeseed Alcohol, Brassica Alcohols | Suitable for ethical formulations; verify source and supplier specs. |
Formulator Tips:
Cetearyl Alcohol is the most common direct replacement and may be used at the same percentage.
If replacing with fatty acids (e.g., stearic acid), be aware of increased hardness and reduced slip.
When switching to lighter esters or oils, balance with other thickeners to maintain stability and viscosity.
Safety and Regulatory Status
GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe): Approved for use in cosmetics and topical pharmaceuticals.
Non-irritating & Non-sensitizing: Well-tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive skin.
Vegan-Friendly: Can be sourced entirely from plant-based materials.
Palm-Free Options: Available for eco-conscious or sustainability-certified formulations.
Environmental and Sustainability Considerations
Cetyl alcohol is biodegradable and considered low-toxicity for environmental use. However, sustainability depends on the source—especially for palm-derived materials. Many suppliers now offer RSPO-certified or palm-free cetyl alcohol options.