At a glance
- CAS number
- 8005-44-5
- INCI name
- Cetearyl Alcohol
- Function
- emulsifier, emollient, thickener, stabilizer
- Typical use level
- 2%–25%
- Solubility
- oil
- Stable pH
- 4–9
CAS number and synonyms are sourced from PubChem. Function, usage levels, pH and compatibility are AI-assisted formulation guidance — verify against your supplier's technical data sheet and applicable regulations before use.
Also known as
Cetearyl alcohol hexadecan-1-ol;octadecan-1-ol Cetyl/stearyl alcohol Cetostearyl alcohol [NF] Alcohols, C16-18;Cetyl-stearyl alcohol
Compatibility
Works well with:
Glycerin Shea Butter Dimethicone Niacinamide Hyaluronic Acid Carbomer Xanthan Gum Behentrimonium Chloride Cetyl Alcohol Stearic Acid
Use caution with:
High concentrations of ethanol Strong oxidizing agents
Cetearyl Alcohol is broadly compatible with most cosmetic ingredients and works synergistically with emulsifying waxes and cationic conditioners like Behentrimonium Chloride in hair formulations. High concentrations of ethanol (>30%) can disrupt the wax crystal structure, destabilizing emulsions. It is generally stable across a wide pH range, though extreme pH values may affect overall emulsion stability.
Formulation notes
A mixture of cetyl and stearyl fatty alcohols; not a true alcohol in the drying sense. Used in the oil phase; melt before incorporation (melting point ~49–56°C). Can cause contact allergy in a small subset of sensitive individuals. No regulatory use restrictions in EU, US, or most global markets at typical cosmetic levels.
Related ingredients
- Stearyl AlcoholEmollient
- Glyceryl StearateEmulsifier
- Arachidyl AlcoholEmollient
- Behenyl AlcoholEmollient
- Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate CopolymerThickener
- Hydroxypropyl Starch PhosphateThickener