Cetyl Alcohol

INCI: CETYL ALCOHOL
Type: Fatty alcohol, co-emulsifier, emollient, viscosity controlling
Origin: Can be derived from vegetable oils (like coconut or palm) via a process called hydrogenation, or produced synthetically. We use vegetable-derived cetyl alcohol.
What it does:
Despite the name alcohol, cetyl alcohol is not drying or irritating. It is a fatty alcohol, a waxy solid that is essential for creating stable, luxurious cosmetic emulsions. Its primary functions are:
- Emulsion stabilizer and co-emulsifier: A foundational ingredient that works alongside primary emulsifiers to create stable, creamy oil-in-water (O/W) lotions and creams, preventing them from separating.
- Texture and viscosity modifier: Adds body and a rich, creamy consistency to formulas, improving their spreadability and luxurious feel on the skin.
- Emollient: Provides a softening, smoothing effect on the skin’s surface and helps form a protective barrier to reduce moisture loss.
Why we use it:
Key ingredient in emulsion science: A cornerstone of emulsion technology, often considered indispensable for creating stable, elegant textures in cream formulations.
We use vegetable-derived cetyl alcohol as a key textural ingredient to achieve the stable and rich cream texture expected in a high-performance moisturizer or night cream. It ensures our formulas have the right consistency, stability, and skin-feel, without compromising on gentleness.