Ingredient Guide
Cetyl Alcohol
Also known as: Cetyl Alcohol, 1-Hexadecanol
All skin types
What It Is
A fatty alcohol naturally derived from palm or coconut oil. One of the foundational emollient and emulsifier ingredients in skincare.
What It Does
Provides richness and smoothness to formulas, acts as a stabilizer for emulsions, and leaves a conditioning film on skin.
Best For
Emollient texture support — functional ingredient
Benefits
- Emollient — skin softening and conditioning
- Thickens and stabilizes cream-based formulas
- Non-drying fatty alcohol
When to Be Careful
- Rare contact sensitization in individuals with coconut/palm oil sensitivity
Commonly Found In
MoisturizersCreamsBarrier treatments
FAQs About Cetyl Alcohol
Is cetyl alcohol the same as cetearyl alcohol?
They are very similar — both are fatty alcohols with emollient and emulsifying properties. Cetyl alcohol is a single compound; cetearyl alcohol is a blend of cetyl and stearyl alcohols. Both are non-drying.