Cetearyl Alcohol (Cetostearyl Alcohol) - emollient, emulsifier, thickener, viscosity modifier

INCI Name

Cetearyl Alcohol

Functions

4 Roles

Sustainability

7/10

What It Does

A fatty alcohol blend that acts as an emollient and co-emulsifier, providing texture enhancement and skin conditioning properties. Commonly used to thicken formulations and stabilize emulsions in creams and lotions.

Softens and smooths skin texture

Creates protective moisture barrier

Improves product feel and glide

Reduces transepidermal water loss

Technical Properties

HLB Value

15.5

Hydrophilic-Lipophilic Balance

Ionic Charge

nonionic

Molecular charge type

Viscosity Effect

thickening

Impact on formula thickness

Foaming Ability

none

Lather generation

Ingredient Compatibility

Works Well With

nonionic surfactantsemollientshumectantsmost activespreservatives

Avoid Combining

strong acidsstrong basesincompatible with some anionic surfactants at high concentrations

Compatibility analysis powered by OpenMix — open-source formulation science

Sustainability Profile

Sustainability Score

7/10

Biodegradability

readily biodegradable

Source

plant-derived

Feedstock

coconut oil, palm oil

Related Ingredients

Similar emollients to explore

Ceramide NP

Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP

Ceramide Complex

Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil

Argan Oil

Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil

Jojoba Oil

Sclerocarya Birrea Seed Oil

Marula Oil

Available Variants

5 forms available

Standard

Wax Beads

Waxy Flakes

Waxy Pellets

White Waxy Flakes

Quick Reference

Full INCI Name: Cetearyl Alcohol
Common Name: Cetostearyl Alcohol
CAS Number: 67762-27-0
Category: emollients

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