




Cetyl Alcohol
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Quick specs
Use 1–3%
Lightweight structuring agent
Improves texture
INGREDIENT OVERVIEW
Cetyl Alcohol
Cetyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol used in cosmetic formulations to improve texture and provide lightweight structure. It is commonly used in creams and lotions where a softer, more elegant skin feel is desired.
Our cetyl alcohol is supplied as a cosmetic-grade waxy solid with a verified assay of 96.78% . It is selected for consistent composition, clean microbial profile, and reliable formulation performance.
In formulation, it is typically used alongside emulsifiers and other structuring agents to refine texture and improve application.
QUALITY & SOURCING
- High purity (96.78% assay, batch verified)
- Controlled acid value
- Clean heavy metal profile
- Microbial profile compliant (TPC, yeast/mould controlled)
- Consistent wax structure for predictable performance
KEY SPECIFICATIONS
- Ingredient: Cetyl Alcohol
- INCI: Cetyl Alcohol
- CAS: 36653-82-4
- Solubility: Oil soluble
- Typical use level:
- Emulsions: 1–3%
- Used as co-structuring agent
- Starter: 2% for most cosmetic formulations
FORMULATION NOTES
Processing notes
Add to oil phase and heat (~70°C) before emulsification.
Compatibility notes
- Compatible with most cosmetic ingredients
- Works well with emulsifiers and fatty alcohol systems
- Suitable across a wide range of formulations
pH notes
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
Troubleshooting
- Too heavy / waxy feel → reduce cetearyl, increase cetyl
- Too thin / lacking structure → increase cetearyl alcohol
- Draggy feel → adjust emollient balance
COMPARISON & ALTERNATIVES
- Heavier structure: cetearyl alcohol
- Emulsifier system: glyceryl stearate citrate
- Oil phase balance: caprylic/capric triglycerides
SENSORY PROFILE
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.
STORAGE & HANDLING
- Store in a cool, dry place, protected from heat, moisture, and direct light.
- Keep container tightly sealed when not in use.
- Shelf life: 2 years when properly stored
PRODUCT SAFETY
- Low irritation potential when used within recommended levels.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Avoid inhalation of dust. Use appropriate PPE during handling and formulation.
- Refer to Safety Data Sheet (SDS) contained within documents tab.
DOCUMENTATION
- Cosmetic grade
- Assay: 96.78%
- Heavy metals: compliant
- Microbial limits: compliant
- COA and SDS available
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