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INGREDIENT DICTIONARY

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Cetyl Alcohol

INCI: Cetyl Alcohol | CAS #: 36653-82-4
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Cetyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol used in cosmetic formulations to improve texture and provide
lightweight structure in emulsions.

What is Cetyl Alcohol & why is it used?

Cetyl alcohol is used to refine texture and provide structure in cosmetic formulations, particularly in creams and lotions.

QUALITY MATTERS

Why specification quality matters

High-purity cosmetic grade cetyl alcohol with verified assay (96.78%) and clean microbial profile, supporting consistent formulation performance.

Solubility Oil soluble
Primary function Thickener
Use level 1.0–3.0%

Behaviour in formulations

Cetyl alcohol integrates into oil phases and improves spreadability and sensory profile.

Sensory notes

Cetyl alcohol contributes a smooth, lightweight skin feel and improves spreadability without adding significant heaviness. It softens formulations and enhances overall sensory balance. Sensory outcome is formulation-dependent; bench testing is recommended.

Formulation considerations

PROCESSING

Add to oil phase and heat (~70°C) before emulsification. 

COMPATIBILITY
  • Compatible with most cosmetic ingredients
  • Works well with emulsifiers and fatty alcohol systems
  • Suitable across a wide range of formulations
pH
Not pH dependent
FORMULATION EXAMPLES

Lotion system

  • Cetyl alcohol: 1–2%
  • Glyceryl stearate citrate: 2–3%
  • Emollients: 3–8%

 Cream system

  • Cetyl alcohol: 1–3%
  • Cetearyl alcohol: 2–3%
  • Emulsifier system

Use level considerations

Recommended range 1.0–3.0%
Suggested starting level 2% for most cosmetic formulations%

Typically used at 1–3% in emulsions.

Formulation summary

Cetyl alcohol is a lightweight structuring ingredient used to improve texture and sensory balance
in emulsions.

Quality notes

High-purity cosmetic grade cetyl alcohol with verified assay (96.78%) and clean microbial profile, supporting consistent formulation performance.

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