Cetearyl alcohol, a blend of fatty alcohols produced from plant oils and natural waxes, is used as an emulsifier, emollient, thickener, and carrying agent. It is a waxy solid in the form of white flakes, a mix of Cetyl and Stearyl alcohols (with 16 and 18 carbon atoms, respectively) without a drying effect.
Cetearyl alcohol is a white, waxy substance that provides a creamy texture and prevents oil and water from separating. Early research showed that a combination of two fatty alcohols provides a significantly greater stabilizing effect on oil-in-water emulsions than either Cetyl or Stearyl alcohol alone.
Made from natural, organically grown, and sustainable raw materials, such as coconut or palm oils, Cetearyl alcohol can also be used as a primary structural surfactant in deodorants and antiperspirant sticks.
In specialized applications, Cetearyl alcohol can serve as a foam booster, an opacifying agent, and a rinse-out skin- and hair-conditioning ingredient. It imparts an emollient feel to the skin. It can be used in water-in-oil emulsions, oil-in-water emulsions, and anhydrous formulations - cream, lotion, ointment, body butter, and salt scrubs in concentrations of 1-25%.It is a universal consistency regulator suitable for water- and oil-based preparations as well as anhydrous formulations. Readily biodegradable, Cetearyl alcohol is an eco-friendly ingredient, some options certified by Ecocert, Halal, and Kosher, and suitable for vegan-oriented products. It is a safe ingredient for skin and hair care applications; however, there are many reported cases of sensitization and allergic reactions, including contact dermatitis.
