Cetyl Alcohol NF: Versatile Thickener, Emollient, and Stabilizer for Cosmetic Formulations

Cetyl Alcohol is a versatile, multi-functional fatty alcohol widely used in cosmetic formulations. It plays a vital role in thickening, stabilizing emulsions, and acting as a non-greasy emollient. It helps create rich, creamy textures in lotions, creams, shampoos, and conditioners, while also delivering moisturizing benefits to the skin. Cetyl Alcohol is derived from plant sources, making it a natural and effective ingredient in personal care products. It enhances both the performance and sensory experience of formulations by improving texture, viscosity, and overall feel.

Key Features & Benefits of Cetyl Alcohol

• Stabilizes Emulsions: Prevents separation of oil and water in formulations, ensuring product stability and longevity.
• Thickens & Adds Viscosity: Improves the texture and viscosity of lotions, creams, and conditioners, providing a rich, smooth application.
• Emollient Properties: Moisturizes and softens the skin by forming a protective barrier that locks in hydration.
• Enhances Opacity: Adds a rich, opaque appearance to formulations, improving the visual and sensory appeal of products.
• Non-Greasy Feel: Cetyl Alcohol delivers a smooth, non-greasy finish in cosmetic formulations, making it ideal for skin and hair care.
• Versatile Ingredient: Works effectively in a variety of products, including lotions, creams, salves, hair shampoos, conditioners, and makeup.

Ingredients (Common Name): Cetyl Alcohol  

Ingredients (INCI Name):  Cetyl Alcohol

CAS No: 36653-82-4

Appearance: White, Waxy Pellets

Odor: Mild Sweet Odor

Solubility: Oil Soluble

Country of Origin: Indonesia

Storage: Store in a cool dark place away from moisture

Recommended Usage

• Lotions & Creams: Use Cetyl Alcohol at 1% to 5% to thicken and stabilize emulsions, providing a smooth, creamy texture. In water-based formulations like lotions, it ensures a stable emulsion with a light, pleasant feel. For thicker creams or richer textures, increase the usage rate up to 10%.

• Shampoos & Conditioners: Incorporate Cetyl Alcohol at 1% to 5% to improve the viscosity and texture of hair care products. It enhances slip and softness, delivering a luxurious, silky feel in shampoo and conditioner formulations.

• Anhydrous Products (e.g., Body Butters, Balms, Solid Bars): In non-water-based formulations like body butters, balms, and solid bars, use Cetyl Alcohol at 5% to 30% to provide structure, reduce greasiness, and improve skin-feel. Higher percentages offer more stability and a firmer texture.

• Makeup Products: For foundations and powders, use Cetyl Alcohol at 1% to 3% to enhance the smoothness and spreadability, ensuring a more even application and a silky finish.

• General Guidelines: The usage of Cetyl Alcohol varies based on the type of product. Lower amounts (1% to 5%) are generally used in emulsions, such as lotions and creams, while higher amounts (up to 30%) are suitable for anhydrous formulations like balms and body butters to achieve a firmer texture and better structure.

How to Use Cetyl Alcohol in Formulations

• Lotions & Creams: Cetyl Alcohol is best used in the heated oil phase of your formulation at 1% to 10%. It melts at around 54°C/129°F and helps thicken lotions and creams, providing a smooth, rich texture while improving stability and emolliency.

• Shampoo & Conditioner Bars: Use Cetyl Alcohol at 1% to 5% to enhance viscosity and provide a silky, smooth application. It allows shampoos and conditioners to glide effortlessly while offering emollient benefits that leave hair soft and manageable.

• Makeup Products: In makeup formulations like foundations and powders, Cetyl Alcohol enhances the texture and spreadability, offering a more uniform application and a smooth finish.

Formulation Tips

• Combine with Emulsifiers: For better emulsions, use Cetyl Alcohol with an emulsifier such as BTMS or Emulsifying Wax to improve stability and texture.
• Use in Anhydrous Formulations: Cetyl Alcohol is effective in anhydrous formulations like body butters and balms, where it can help improve glide and reduce tackiness.
• Adjust for Desired Texture: The amount of Cetyl Alcohol used can be adjusted depending on the desired thickness and texture. Higher percentages can create firmer products, while lower percentages allow for lighter, more fluid formulations.

Storage Guidelines

• Storage: Keep Cetyl Alcohol in a sealed, airtight container in a cool, dark place to avoid exposure to moisture and light, which could degrade its quality.
• Shelf Life: 2 years from the date of manufacture if stored properly.

Safety Guidelines

• Safety: Cetyl Alcohol is intended for external use only and is not to be ingested. It is non-toxic and non-irritating, making it suitable for sensitive skin formulations. As with any cosmetic ingredient, avoid contact with eyes, and if irritation occurs, discontinue use. Individuals who are pregnant or under medical care should consult a healthcare provider before use.

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