Cetyl alcohol
Cetyl alcohol is a versatile fatty alcohol used to improve the texture, consistency and skin feel of cosmetic formulations. Despite its name, it isn't the drying type of alcohol commonly associated with ethanol. Instead, it acts as an emollient, thickener and stabiliser, giving formulations a smooth, silky feel and improved spreadability.
It can be used in creams and lotions to add body, improve texture and help support emulsion stability. In shampoos and conditioners, cetyl alcohol can enhance viscosity and conditioning while contributing to a softer, more moisturised feel on the hair.
Cetyl alcohol is also useful in solid and anhydrous formulations. It can replace a portion of harder waxes where a smoother texture, better slip and less tackiness are desired, without adding the same heaviness as some traditional waxes.
Derived from coconut and palm oil, with the palm component sourced through RSPO mass balance certified supply chains.
Functional Benefits
- Adds body and viscosity to creams and lotions
- Helps stabilise emulsions
- Provides a smooth, silky skin feel
- Improves slip and spreadability
- Adds conditioning and softness to hair formulations
- Can reduce the tackiness and heaviness of wax-based products
- Suitable for skin care, hair care and anhydrous formulations
Product Information
Common Name: Cetyl Alcohol
INCI: Cetyl Alcohol
Appearance: Small white beads
Charge: Non-ionic
Solubility: Oil soluble
Melting Point: 45–50°C
Usage Rate: 1–30%
Vegan: Yes
Palm Oil: Yes, RSPO Mass Balance certified
Animal Tested: No
All our products are for external use only.