CETYL ALCOHOL

Origin

Cetyl Alcohol is a plant-derived fatty alcohol obtained from natural vegetable oils, typically coconut or palm kernel oil. It is produced through the hydrogenation of cetyl fatty acids, resulting in a long-chain, waxy solid that functions as an emollient, thickener, and co-emulsifier in cosmetic and personal care formulations. Cetyl Alcohol is a renewable, biodegradable ingredient that provides a creamy, smooth texture while enhancing stability and moisture retention.

Summary

Cetyl Alcohol is a multifunctional emollient and texture enhancer that gives cosmetic products a luxurious, soft, and velvety feel. As a fatty alcohol, it is non-drying and conditioning, improving the structure and stability of emulsions. It is widely used to thicken and stabilize creams, lotions, and hair conditioners, while also contributing to smooth application and enhanced sensory performance. Its natural origin and mildness make it ideal for clean beauty and sensitive skin formulations.

Technical Data

INCI Name: Cetyl Alcohol

CAS Number: 36653-82-4

Chemical Class: Fatty alcohol (C16 chain length)

Source: Vegetable-derived (coconut or palm kernel oil)

HLB (Hydrophilic-Lipophilic Balance): 15.5 (co-emulsifier, oil-phase stabilizer)

Melting Point: 48–54 °C

Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in oils and alcohols

Acid Value: ≤ 0.1 mg KOH/g

Saponification Value: ≤ 1.0 mg KOH/g

Iodine Value: ≤ 0.5

Shelf Life: 36 months (store in a cool, dry area away from moisture and light)

Usage Level in Cosmetics and Personal Care Products

Creams & Lotions: 2–5 %

Conditioners & Hair Masks: 1–4 %

Body Butters & Balms: 3–10 %

Emulsions (as co-emulsifier): 1–5 %

Properties

Excellent emollient and thickening agent

Enhances stability and viscosity in emulsions

Improves texture and spreadability

Provides smooth, creamy, and rich sensory feel

Conditions hair and skin without greasiness

Non-irritating and suitable for sensitive formulations

Plant-derived, biodegradable, and PEG-free

Appearance

White, waxy solid flakes or pellets with a mild, neutral odor.

Product Overview

Suncoast Personal Care Products Cetyl Alcohol is a plant-based, multifunctional fatty alcohol that delivers superior texture, stability, and sensory balance in emulsions and anhydrous systems. Acting as an emollient, co-emulsifier, and thickener, it contributes to a soft, creamy, and luxurious feel in both skin and hair formulations. Suncoast Personal Care Products Cetyl Alcohol is ideal for natural and sustainable beauty products that require structure, stability, and skin comfort.

Environmental Working Group (EWG) Safety Level

EWG Rating: 1 (Low Hazard) — Safe, non-irritating, and suitable for natural, organic, and sensitive-skin applications.