Cetearyl Alcohol

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overview

Cetearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol derived from plants like coconut and palm oil or synthesized in labs. It's used in skincare products as an emulsifier, stabilizer, and thickener. It prevents separation, encourages even application, and softens the skin. It is also used as an emollient to treat or prevent dry, rough, scaly, itchy skin and minor skin irritations. It can help ingredients penetrate the skin, preserve the product, and make it feel lightweight when applied.

benefits

Emollient: Cetearyl alcohol softens and smooths the skin. Stabilizer: Cetearyl alcohol helps skin care formulas maintain their texture, consistency, and thickness. Emulsifier: Cetearyl alcohol acts as a binding agent, helping to keep oil and water together. Thickener: Not only does it bring ingredients together, it also is a thickening agent that makes products feel more luxurious.

Skin suitability

Suitable for all skin types, except for those with allergies.

concerns

There's a small risk of allergic reaction to cetearyl alcohol. Some people may experience burning, stinging, redness, or irritation.

precautions

If you have sensitive skin or other allergies, it may be a good idea to perform a patch test with any product containing this ingredient. Some ingredients (such as preservatives, fragrance) may make you more sensitive to the sun. Check the label for any warnings or ask your doctor or pharmacist if you need to take any special precautions when in the sun.

source

Cetearyl alcohol is a chemical found in cosmetic products. It's a white, waxy mixture of cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol, both fatty alcohols. They're found in animals and plants, like coconut and palm oil. They can also be made in a laboratory.

CIR

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel concluded in 1988 that fatty alcohols, including cetearyl alcohol, are safe for use in cosmetic products.

EWG

NA

additional info

Cetearyl alcohol is also included on the FDA list of safe and permitted food additives. Cetearyl alcohol is a commonly used ingredient in all kinds of products, from moisturizers to lotions, to creams and hair conditioners. Fatty alcohols like cetearyl alcohol are often found in cleansing lotions and moisturizers as thickeners and emulsifiers. They aren’t irritating and can be beneficial for dehydrated skin.