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. Derived from plant sources, Cetyl Alcohol is 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: Delivers a smooth, non-greasy finish, making it ideal for skin and hair care formulations.
-
Versatile Ingredient: Works effectively in a variety of products, including lotions, creams, salves, hair shampoos, conditioners, and makeup.
Ingredients & Technical Data
-
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 viscosity and texture in 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 1% to 3% to enhance smoothness and spreadability, ensuring a more even application and silky finish.
General Guidelines:
Usage of Cetyl Alcohol varies based on product type. Lower amounts (1–5%) are typically used in emulsions such as lotions and creams, while higher amounts (up to 30%) are suitable for anhydrous formulations to achieve a firmer structure and better stability.
How to Use Cetyl Alcohol in Formulations
-
Lotions & Creams: Best used in the heated oil phase of your formulation at 1% to 10%. It melts around 54°C/129°F and helps thicken and stabilize while adding emolliency.
-
Shampoo & Conditioner Bars: Use 1% to 5% to enhance viscosity and provide a silky, smooth application. Helps products glide easily and leaves hair soft and manageable.
-
Makeup Products: Improves texture and spreadability in foundations and powders, creating a uniform and smooth finish.
Formulation Tips
-
Combine with Emulsifiers: Use Cetyl Alcohol with emulsifiers like BTMS or Emulsifying Wax for improved stability and smoother texture.
-
Use in Anhydrous Formulations: Effective in body butters and balms to reduce tackiness and improve glide.
-
Adjust for Desired Texture: Modify usage levels based on product type—higher levels create firmer, more structured textures, while lower levels yield lighter formulations.
Storage Guidelines
-
Storage: Keep Cetyl Alcohol in a sealed, airtight container in a cool, dark place to prevent exposure to moisture or light.
-
Shelf Life: 2 years from the date of manufacture if stored properly.
Safety Guidelines
-
For External Use Only: Not to be ingested.
-
Non-toxic and non-irritating, suitable for sensitive-skin formulations.
-
Avoid contact with eyes. If irritation occurs, discontinue use.
-
Pregnant individuals or those under medical care should consult a healthcare provider before use.
Why Use Cetyl Alcohol in Hair & Skin Care?
Cetyl Alcohol for hair improves manageability, enhances slip, and softens strands without leaving buildup. It works synergistically with Cetearyl Alcohol for hair to create smooth, conditioning formulations.
In skincare, it contributes to moisture retention and skin softness, making it a core ingredient in creams, lotions, and emulsions.
Cetyl Alcohol benefits include improved stability, luxurious texture, and enhanced skin-feel — essential for both professional and DIY cosmetic formulations.
Bulk Orders
Bulk supply of Cetyl Alcohol is available.
For inquiries and competitive pricing, please contact:
? info@naturalbulksupplies.com
Our team provides technical support and bulk pricing for both small and large manufacturing operations.
FAQs About Cetyl Alcohol
- What is Cetyl Alcohol?
Cetyl Alcohol is a fatty alcohol used as a thickener, stabilizer, and emollient in skincare and haircare formulations. - What is Cetyl Alcohol in skin care?
In skincare, Cetyl Alcohol improves texture, prevents separation in emulsions, and adds moisture for a smooth, soft feel. - Is Cetyl Alcohol good for hair?
Yes. Cetyl Alcohol for hair enhances softness, slip, and manageability, leaving hair silky and smooth. - What is the difference between Cetyl Alcohol and Cetearyl Alcohol?
Cetearyl Alcohol is a blend of Cetyl and Stearyl Alcohols. Both act as emollients and stabilizers, but Cetearyl Alcohol offers a slightly thicker texture and is ideal for heavier formulations. - Is Cetyl Alcohol natural?
Yes. Cetyl Alcohol is typically plant-derived, sourced from coconut or palm oils, making it suitable for natural and clean beauty formulations.
