INCI
Cetyl Alcohol
WHAT DOES IT DO AND WHY DO WE USE IT?
Cetyl Alcohol is a versatile fatty alcohol used primarily as an emulsion thickener and
opacifier. It enhances the viscosity, body, texture, and skin feel of lotions and creams,
providing a velvety touch. This ingredient is beneficial for its emollient properties, as it
absorbs into the epidermis to soften and lubricate the skin. It’s also used to increase the
melting point of anhydrous body butters, scrubs, lotion bars, and balms.
SOLUBILITY: Oil Soluble
USAGE RATE: 1-30%
CHARGE: Non-Ionic
APPEARANCE: White or Off White pellets.
ODOR: Nothing to note.
FORM: Waxy Pellets
PH VALUE: N/A
MELT RANGE: 49c (120F)
NATURE STATUS: Permitted in Natural Cosmetics
HLB VALUE: 15.5
STORAGE: You can store Cetyl Alcohol in a Zip Lock bag or a Tupperware container, and it should be kept in a cool, dry place.
BENEFITS: Cetyl Alcohol is an excellent addition to any formulator's ingredient inventory due to its versatility across a broad range of formulations. It serves as an effective thickener, often preferred over waxes like beeswax or candelilla because it enhances the texture without imparting a waxy feel. Even a small percentage can significantly increase the viscosity of a product. Additionally, Cetyl Alcohol is beneficial in anhydrous body butters, where it helps extend the melting time, making the product more stable in warmer conditions.
WHAT WE CAN MAKE WITH IT
● Lotions/Creams
● Body Butters
● Balms
● Sugar Scrubs
● Hair Conditioners
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