What Is Cetearyl Alcohol ?

2026-07-21

Cetostearyl alcohol (CAS 67762-27-0) is a mixture of hexadecyl alcohol (C16H34O) and octadecyl alcohol (C18H38O), containing not less than 40% octadecyl alcohol, with the total content of both not less than 90%, and containing a small amount of tetradecanol. It appears as a white solid or flakes, with a melting point of 49–56°C and a density of 0.811–0.842 g/cm³. It is soluble in ethanol, diethyl ether, and mineral oil, but insoluble in water.
Cetostearyl alcohol can be produced by the reduction of animal and plant fatty acids or through hydrocarbon synthesis. In cosmetics, it serves as a base for creams and lotions, providing lubrication, viscosity enhancement, and emulsion stabilisation, thereby reducing the amount of emulsifier required. In the pharmaceutical field, it is used in the preparation of creams, ointments, and sustained-release tablets; the maximum usage in topical formulations is 12% (for creams) and 70 mg per tablet in oral formulations.

Cetyl Alcohol VS Cetearyl Alcohol

Comparison Item	Cetyl Alcohol	Cetearyl Alcohol
Chemical Composition	Single pure C16 fatty alcohol: 1-hexadecanol, C₁₆H₃₄O	Mixture of C16 cetyl alcohol and C18 stearyl alcohol, typical mixing ratios 30:70 / 50:50
CAS Number	36653-82-4	8005-44-5 / 67762-27-0 (registered for mixed alcohols)
Appearance	White waxy flakes / bead-shaped solids	White waxy flakes / granular crystals
Melting Point	Approx. 49℃	48~58℃ (rises with higher proportion of C18 stearyl alcohol)
Solubility	Soluble in oil phase, insoluble in water; pH compatibility range 3~12	Soluble in oil phase, insoluble in water; pH compatibility range 3~12
Raw Material Source	Fractionated and purified from coconut oil / palm oil	Mixed fractionated product derived from coconut oil / palm oil
Product Function Category	Emollient, thickener, auxiliary emulsifier	Emollient, high-performance thickener, stabilizing auxiliary emulsifier
Skin Feel upon Application	Silky and lightweight, smooth without drag, low waxiness	Dense and rich, luxurious velvety texture, stronger waxiness
Thickening Capacity	Moderate thickening effect, without excessive heaviness	Powerful thickening performance, significantly superior shaping ability for creams
Emulsion Stabilizing Performance	Average stability; suitable for simple light lotions, prone to separation	Higher stability; compatible with complex high-oil-phase formulations, resistant to demulsification and layer separation
Occlusive Moisturizing Power	Moderate occlusivity, lightweight and breathable, low risk of clogged pores	Strong occlusive water-locking effect, repairs dry skin barrier, relatively heavy texture
Recommended Dosage in Formulations	1%~5% for skincare products; 1%~3% for hair & body care products	2%~7% for skincare products; 2%~10% for hair conditioners

Is Cetearyl Alcohol Bad for Skin?

Cetyl alcohol is a common fatty alcohol composed of a blend of cetyl alcohol (C16) and stearyl alcohol (C18). It is widely used in skincare products, primarily as an emulsifier, thickener, and emollient. It helps stabilise formulations and improve texture, and it has moisturising and skin-softening properties; however, excessive use or sensitivity to this ingredient may lead to clogged pores or irritation.

Is Cetearyl Alcohol Bad for Hair?

The effects of cetearyl alcohol on hair vary from person to person. For some people, using products containing cetearyl alcohol may lead to issues such as greasy hair and clogged pores. For people with oily scalps, using shampoos containing cetearyl alcohol may put additional strain on the scalp and lead to scalp problems. However, for those with dry or normal scalps, using shampoos containing cetearyl alcohol in moderation may help improve dryness and frizz.