emollientsWaxy Pastilles

Cetyl Esters

Cetyl Esters

Waxy ester providing texture modification and enhanced lipid complex stability

INCI Name

Cetyl Esters

Functions

1 Roles

Sustainability

7/10

Category

emollients

What It Does

Cetyl Esters is a synthetic wax composed of cetyl alcohol esterified with various fatty acids, creating a complex mixture that mimics the properties of natural spermaceti wax (historically derived from whales). Formulators choose this ingredient specifically for its ability to impart a luxurious, non-greasy waxy texture while providing excellent structure to anhydrous products like lipsticks, balms, and stick foundations. Its unique crystalline structure creates a smooth, elegant skin feel and helps stabilize emulsions while contributing to product hardness and melting point control.

Enhances formula performance
Contributes to product quality
Supports formulation goals
Improves user experience

Technical Properties

Ionic Charge

nonionic

Molecular charge type

Viscosity Effect

thickening

Impact on formula thickness

Foaming Ability

none

Lather generation

Ingredient Compatibility

Works Well With

other emollientswaxesoilsnonionic emulsifierssiliconesfilm formers

Avoid Combining

strong acidsstrong oxidizers
Compatibility analysis powered by OpenMix — open-source formulation science

Sustainability Profile

Sustainability Score

7/10

Biodegradability

readily biodegradable

Source

synthetic

Feedstock

fatty alcohols and fatty acids

Quick Reference

Full INCI Name
Cetyl Esters
Common Name
Cetyl Esters
Category
emollients

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Cetyl Esters (Cetyl Esters) - Waxy ester providing texture modification and enhanced lipid complex stability | Genie Ingredient Database