Cetearyl Alcohol

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Also known as: (C16-C18) Alkyl Alcohol, C16-18 Alcohol, Cetostearyl Alcohol, and Cetyl/Stearyl Alcohol

A white, waxy mixture of cetyl and stearyl alcohol, two fatty alcohols that are found in animals and plants. Unlike ethanol and rubbing alcohols that dry the skin out, fatty alcohols are non-irritating and bind water to the skin leaving it feeling soft and smooth. It is used as an emulsifier and thickener in creams and lotions to keep them from separating into oil and liquid. It also helps stabilize foam products such as cleansers.

Type of ingredient: Thickening Agent, Emulsifying Agent, Emollient

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