Cetearyl Alcohol
Cetearyl Alcohol
Cetearyl Alcohol is a fatty alcohol used in skincare, cosmetics, and haircare products as an emollient, thickener, and emulsifier. Unlike drying alcohols such as ethanol or isopropyl alcohol, it helps soften the skin, improve texture, and stabilise formulations by preventing oil and water from separating. It is commonly derived from coconut oil, palm oil, or synthetic sources.
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Safety: Generally well tolerated by all skin types, including sensitive skin.
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Comedogenic rating(likelihood of clogging pores)
2/5 — Low likelihood
✓ Does not disqualify fragrance-free, alcohol-free, SLS-free or paraben-free claims
Common names & aliases
Cetostearyl AlcoholCetyl/Stearyl AlcoholCetylstearyl AlcoholC16-18 Alcohol(C16-C18) Alkyl Alcohol
Functions
✨ Emollient
Softens and smooths skin by filling microscopic gaps between skin cells.
🔗 Emulsifier
Keeps oil and water phases mixed together in a stable formula.
🫙 Thickener
Adjusts the viscosity and texture of the formula.
Similar ingredientsSame function — click a category above to see full A–Z list
Found in these products
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Intensive Healing Cream with 15% Lactic Acid AHA
Amlactin
10% Urea Cream
Flexitol
Gentle Skin Cleanser
Cetaphil
Skin Renewing Peptide Cream
CeraVe
Gentle Skin Cleanser
Cetaphil
Gentle Skin Cleanser
Cetaphil
10% Urea Cream
Flexitol
Cracked Heel Balm
Flexitol
Dermol 500
Dermal Laboratories
AM Facial Moisturising Lotion SPF 50
CeraVe