Cetearyl Alcohol
INCI: CETEARYL ALCOHOL
Obtaining: Cetearylic alcohol is actually a mixture of two different long-chain alcohols: stearyl alcohol (C18) and cetyl alcohol (C16) at a ratio of 70:30 respectively. It is insulated from palm oil and coconut oil. It comes in the form of white scales.
Benefits: Cetearylic alcohol is a universal sapper. It is special because it does not form a gelatinous structure when thickening. It is also used to stabilize any preparation at room temperature. For skin-related problems, it is an emollient, so it helps dry skin regain moisture. Like other alcohols, it is not irritating to dry, is proven to be safe and non-toxic by many regulatory authorities. The product containing cetearylic alcohol can still be labeled as "non-alcoholic," according to the FDA. It also has foaming properties. It is used in creams, lotions and makeup products.