Cetearyl Alcohol 50/50

Cetearyl alcohol is a blend of fatty alcohols cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol which are made by catalytic hydrogenation of triglycerides obtained from vegetable and coconut oils and followed by oxidation of a chain growth product of ethylene oligomerized on a triethylaluminum catalyst. It is a white waxy solid with a typical fatty alcohol odor. Cetearyl Alcohol 50/50 is a combination of cetyl and stearyl alcohol that serves as non-gelling thickener and co-emulsifier. It improves the viscosity and consistency of formulation. It also has emollient, moisturizing, and foam-bootitng properties.

In cosmetic and personal care products, Cetearyl Alcohol acts as:

Emollient – softens and smooths the skin
Thickener – increases viscosity of creams and lotions
Emulsion stabilizer – helps oil and water stay mixed
Co-emulsifier – improves texture and stability
Conditioning agent – leaves skin and hair feeling soft
Common Uses
Creams and lotions
Hair conditioners
Shampoos
Body butters
Facial moisturizers
Sunscreens
Ointments and pharmaceutical creams
 

Typical INCI Declaration

Cetearyl Alcohol

CAS Number

67762-27-0

Is it safe?

Yes. It is generally considered safe and non-irritating for cosmetic use. Unlike drying alcohols (such as ethanol, SD alcohol, or isopropyl alcohol), fatty alcohols like Cetearyl Alcohol help moisturize and improve skin feel.

Example

A typical moisturizing cream may contain 2–8% Cetearyl Alcohol to give it a rich texture, improve stability, and prevent separation.

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