At a glance
- CAS number
- 3539-43-3
- INCI name
- Cetyl Phosphate
- Function
- emulsifier, surfactant, skin conditioning
- Typical use level
- 1%–5%
- Solubility
- oil
- Stable pH
- 4–7
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
Hexadecyl Phosphate Cetyl Acid Phosphate Amphisol Monohexadecyl Phosphate
Compatibility
Works well with:
Cetyl Alcohol Glycerin Niacinamide Carbomer Dimethicone Stearic Acid
Use caution with:
High concentrations of cationic surfactants Quaternary Ammonium Compounds
Cetyl Phosphate is an anionic emulsifier and can form complexes or lose efficacy when combined with cationic surfactants or quaternary ammonium salts. It works best in mildly acidic to neutral pH ranges and is commonly neutralized with bases such as triethanolamine or potassium hydroxide during formulation to achieve optimal emulsification. Pairing with fatty alcohols like cetyl alcohol enhances emulsion stability.
Formulation notes
Cetyl Phosphate is an anionic, phosphate ester-based emulsifier derived from cetyl alcohol, widely used to create stable oil-in-water emulsions with a light, elegant skin feel. It imparts a mild skin-conditioning effect and is valued in lotions, creams, and sunscreens for its ability to stabilize emulsions at relatively low use levels. It requires neutralization during formulation and should be processed at elevated temperatures (above its melting point) to ensure even dispersion.
Related ingredients
- Behenyl PEG/PPG-20/20 DimethiconeEmulsifier
- Cetearyl GlucosideEmulsifier
- Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 DimethiconeEmulsifier
- Glyceryl StearateEmulsifier
- LecithinEmulsifier
- PEG-100 StearateEmulsifier