Cetyl Alcohol (Lanette 16)

CAS Number:

36653-82-4

Chemical / IUPAC Name:

1-Hexadecanol

INCI Name:

 Cetyl Alcohol

Molecular Formula:

C16H34O

Molecular Weight:

 242.44 g/mol

EC Number:

253-149-0

Other Names:

Palmityl Alcohol, n-Hexadecyl Alcohol, C16 Alcohol, Ethal

Uses:

Cetyl Alcohol is a fatty alcohol that appears as white, waxy flakes or pellets at room temperature. Despite its name, it acts as a thickener, emulsifier, and emollient rather than a drying alcohol. It is one of the most commonly used ingredients in personal care products .

· Cosmetics & Personal Care: Widely used in creams, lotions, moisturizers, and sunscreens as an emulsion stabilizer and viscosity modifier. It helps create smooth, stable products with a rich texture .

· Hair Care: A key ingredient in conditioners, hair masks, and shampoos where it provides slip, detangling, and a soft, silky feel without weighing hair down .

· Skin Care: Functions as an emollient to soften and smooth the skin, leaving a protective barrier that prevents moisture loss .

· Pharmaceuticals: Used in topical ointments and creams as a consistency agent and emulsifier .

Origin

Cetyl Alcohol is a naturally-derived fatty alcohol obtained from vegetable sources, primarily palm oil and coconut oil. It is produced by the reduction of palmitic acid (a fatty acid) derived from these oils. It can also be produced synthetically, but vegetable-derived cetyl alcohol is preferred in natural and eco-friendly formulations .

What does Cetyl Alcohol do in a formulation?

• Emulsion Stabilizer: Helps prevent oil and water phases from separating .
• Viscosity Modifier / Thickener: Increases the thickness and body of formulations .
• Emollient: Softens and smooths the skin .
• Opacifying Agent: Contributes to the creamy, opaque appearance of products .
• Surfactant: Provides mild cleansing and foaming properties .
• Foam Booster: Enhances and stabilizes lather in cleansing products .

Safety Profile:

· General Hazard Classification: Considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It is non-toxic and non-irritating .

· Irritation & Sensitization: Generally regarded as non-irritating and non-sensitizing to skin and eyes at typical use concentrations (0.5-10%) .

· Important Clarification: Despite containing "alcohol" in its name, cetyl alcohol is not drying like ethanol or isopropyl alcohol. It is a fatty alcohol that actually moisturizes and conditions the skin .

· Comedogenicity: Considered non-comedogenic (does not clog pores) at typical use levels .

· Regulatory Status: Approved for use in cosmetics worldwide. Meets pharmacopoeia standards (USP, NF, Ph.Eur.) .

Technical profile: