At a glance
- CAS number
- 8005-44-5
- INCI name
- Cetearyl Alcohol
- Function
- emulsifier, emollient, thickener, stabilizer
- Typical use level
- 2%–25%
- Solubility
- oil
- Stable pH
- 4–9
CAS number and synonyms are sourced from PubChem. Function, usage levels, pH and compatibility are AI-assisted formulation guidance — verify against your supplier's technical data sheet and applicable regulations before use.
Also known as
Cetearyl alcohol hexadecan-1-ol;octadecan-1-ol Cetyl/stearyl alcohol Cetostearyl alcohol [NF] Alcohols, C16-18;Cetyl-stearyl alcohol
Compatibility
Works well with:
Glycerin Shea Butter Dimethicone Niacinamide Hyaluronic Acid Carbomer Xanthan Gum Behentrimonium Chloride Cetyl Alcohol Stearic Acid
Use caution with:
High concentrations of ethanol Strong oxidizing agents
Cetearyl Alcohol is broadly compatible with most cosmetic ingredients and works synergistically with emulsifying waxes and cationic conditioners like Behentrimonium Chloride in hair formulations. High concentrations of ethanol (>30%) can disrupt the wax crystal structure, destabilizing emulsions. It is generally stable across a wide pH range, though extreme pH values may affect overall emulsion stability.
Formulation notes
A mixture of cetyl and stearyl fatty alcohols; not a true alcohol in the drying sense. Used in the oil phase; melt before incorporation (melting point ~49–56°C). Can cause contact allergy in a small subset of sensitive individuals. No regulatory use restrictions in EU, US, or most global markets at typical cosmetic levels.
Frequently asked questions
What is Cetearyl Alcohol?
Cetearyl Alcohol is a emulsifier, emollient, thickener, stabilizer used in cosmetic and personal-care formulation. Typical use level is 2%–25%. It is oil-soluble. Stable in the pH 4–9 range.
What is Cetearyl Alcohol used for?
Cetearyl Alcohol is used as emulsifier, emollient, thickener, stabilizer in cosmetic and personal-care formulations.
What is the typical use level of Cetearyl Alcohol?
Cetearyl Alcohol is typically used at 2%–25% in the finished formulation. Always confirm against your supplier's technical data sheet.
What is the CAS number of Cetearyl Alcohol?
The CAS registry number for Cetearyl Alcohol is 8005-44-5. Its INCI name is Cetearyl Alcohol.
At what pH is Cetearyl Alcohol stable?
Cetearyl Alcohol is generally stable in the pH 4–9 range.
What ingredients are compatible with Cetearyl Alcohol?
Cetearyl Alcohol works well with Glycerin, Shea Butter, Dimethicone, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, Carbomer, Xanthan Gum, Behentrimonium Chloride, Cetyl Alcohol, Stearic Acid. Use caution when combining it with High concentrations of ethanol, Strong oxidizing agents.
Related ingredients
- Stearyl AlcoholEmollient
- Glyceryl StearateEmulsifier
- Glyceryl Stearate CitrateEmulsifier
- Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate CrosspolymerThickener
- Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate VP CopolymerThickener
- Arachidyl AlcoholEmollient