

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. What is Cetostearyl Alcohol?
Cetostearyl Alcohol, also known as Cetearyl Alcohol, is a mixture of fatty alcohols, primarily consisting of cetyl and stearyl alcohols. It is widely used in the personal care industry as an emollient, emulsifier, thickener, and stabilizer in various formulations such as creams, lotions, hair conditioners, and cleansers.
2. What is the CAS Number and INCI Name for Cetostearyl Alcohol?
CAS Number: 67762-27-0
INCI Name: Cetearyl Alcohol
3. What are the main functions of Cetostearyl Alcohol in personal care products?
Cetostearyl Alcohol functions mainly as:
Emollient: It helps to soften and smooth the skin and hair.
Emulsifier and Co-emulsifier: It helps to mix oil and water, providing stability to emulsions.
Thickening Agent: It enhances the texture and viscosity of formulations.
Stabilizer: It improves the shelf life and consistency of products.
4. Is Cetostearyl Alcohol safe for skin and hair care products?
Yes, Cetostearyl Alcohol is considered safe for use in personal care products. It is non-irritating and non-sensitizing for the vast majority of consumers. It is also approved by regulatory authorities like the FDA and is included in the CIR (Cosmetic Ingredient Review) Expert Panel’s safe list.
5. Is Cetostearyl Alcohol suitable for sensitive skin?
Cetostearyl Alcohol is generally suitable for sensitive skin and is often used in dermatologically tested and hypoallergenic formulations. However, as with all ingredients, patch testing is recommended for very sensitive individuals.
6. Does Cetostearyl Alcohol have moisturizing properties?
Yes, Cetostearyl Alcohol acts as an effective moisturizer by creating a barrier that reduces water loss from the skin’s surface, helping maintain hydration.
8. Is Cetostearyl Alcohol derived from natural sources?
Yes, Cetostearyl Alcohol is often derived from natural plant sources such as coconut oil or palm oil. However, synthetic versions are also available depending on the supplier and formulation requirements.
9. Can Cetostearyl Alcohol be used in vegan or cruelty-free formulations?
Yes, plant-derived Cetostearyl Alcohol is compatible with vegan and cruelty-free formulations. It’s important to verify the source with your supplier if you are targeting vegan certification.