INCI Name
Cetyl Alcohol
Functions
4 Roles
Sustainability
7/10
Category
emollients
What It Does
A fatty alcohol derived from natural sources that functions as an emollient and co-emulsifier. It provides creamy texture and helps stabilize oil-in-water emulsions while delivering skin conditioning benefits.
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 preservativessilicones
Avoid Combining
strong acidsstrong oxidizers
Compatibility analysis powered by OpenMix — open-source formulation science
Sustainability Profile
Sustainability Score
7/10
Biodegradability
readily biodegradable
Source
plant-derived
Feedstock
palm oil or coconut oil
Related Ingredients
Similar emollients to explore
Bulnesia Sarmientoi Wood Oil
Guaiacwood oil
ACRYLATES/DIMETHICONE COPOLYMER
Acrylates/Dimethicone Copolymer
CHROMIUM OXIDE GREENS (CI 77288) (and) DIMETHICONE/SILICA
Surface-Treated Chromium Oxide Green
C13-15 Alkane
Hemisqualane
Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Extract
Water-Dispersible Broad-Spectrum Hemp Extract (CBD)
Quick Reference
- Full INCI Name
- Cetyl Alcohol
- Common Name
- Cetyl Alcohol
- CAS Number
- 36653-82-4
- Category
- emollients