At a glance
- CAS number
- 3539-43-3
- INCI name
- Cetyl Phosphate
- Function
- emulsifier, surfactant, skin conditioning
- Typical use level
- 1%–5%
- Solubility
- oil
- Stable pH
- 4–7
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
Hexadecyl Phosphate Cetyl Acid Phosphate Amphisol Monohexadecyl Phosphate
Compatibility
Works well with:
Cetyl Alcohol Glycerin Niacinamide Carbomer Dimethicone Stearic Acid
Use caution with:
High concentrations of cationic surfactants Quaternary Ammonium Compounds
Cetyl Phosphate is an anionic emulsifier and can form complexes or lose efficacy when combined with cationic surfactants or quaternary ammonium salts. It works best in mildly acidic to neutral pH ranges and is commonly neutralized with bases such as triethanolamine or potassium hydroxide during formulation to achieve optimal emulsification. Pairing with fatty alcohols like cetyl alcohol enhances emulsion stability.
Formulation notes
Cetyl Phosphate is an anionic, phosphate ester-based emulsifier derived from cetyl alcohol, widely used to create stable oil-in-water emulsions with a light, elegant skin feel. It imparts a mild skin-conditioning effect and is valued in lotions, creams, and sunscreens for its ability to stabilize emulsions at relatively low use levels. It requires neutralization during formulation and should be processed at elevated temperatures (above its melting point) to ensure even dispersion.
Frequently asked questions
What is Cetyl Phosphate?
Cetyl Phosphate is a emulsifier, surfactant, skin conditioning used in cosmetic and personal-care formulation. Typical use level is 1%–5%. It is oil-soluble. Stable in the pH 4–7 range.
What is Cetyl Phosphate used for?
Cetyl Phosphate is used as emulsifier, surfactant, skin conditioning in cosmetic and personal-care formulations.
What is the typical use level of Cetyl Phosphate?
Cetyl Phosphate is typically used at 1%–5% in the finished formulation. Always confirm against your supplier's technical data sheet.
What is the CAS number of Cetyl Phosphate?
The CAS registry number for Cetyl Phosphate is 3539-43-3. Its INCI name is Cetyl Phosphate.
At what pH is Cetyl Phosphate stable?
Cetyl Phosphate is generally stable in the pH 4–7 range.
What ingredients are compatible with Cetyl Phosphate?
Cetyl Phosphate works well with Cetyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Carbomer, Dimethicone, Stearic Acid. Use caution when combining it with High concentrations of cationic surfactants, Quaternary Ammonium Compounds.
Related ingredients
- Sodium Stearoyl GlutamateEmulsifier
- Behenyl PEG/PPG-20/20 DimethiconeEmulsifier
- Ceteareth-20Emulsifier
- Cetearyl GlucosideEmulsifier
- Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 DimethiconeEmulsifier
- Glyceryl StearateEmulsifier