• Thickens and stabilizes oil-in-water emulsions
• Improves spreadability and skin feel
• Acts as a secondary emulsifier in lotion and cream bases
• Non-greasy finish with mild conditioning properties
• Compatible with other emulsifiers and active ingredients

Ceto-Stearyl Alcohol – Non-Greasy Emulsifier & Thickener for Cosmetics

 Ceto-Stearyl Alcohol (also known as Cetearyl Alcohol) is a blend of cetyl and stearyl fatty alcohols, usually derived from coconut or palm oil. It acts as a texturizer, co-emulsifier, and thickener in personal care formulations. Unlike simple waxes, Ceto-Stearyl Alcohol offers a smooth, powdery finish with excellent stability and compatibility. It's frequently used in creams, conditioners, lotions, balms, and emulsions to improve viscosity and enhance user experience.

INCI Name: Cetearyl Alcohol

CAS Number: 8005-44-5

Solubility: Oil-soluble

Add Phase: Heated oil phase

pH Stability: 3.5 – 8.5

Processing Temperature: 60–75°C

Appearance: White waxy flakes or pellets

Odor: Neutral or faint waxy odor

Molecular Formula: Mixture (Cetyl: C16H34O, Stearyl: C18H38O)

Molecular Weight: Variable blend

Flash Point: > 150°C

Density: ~0.81 g/cm³

Chemical Type: Fatty alcohol blend

Functional Groups: Hydroxyl (-OH)

Primary Cosmetic Uses: Creams, lotions, balms, conditioners, hair masks, serums

• Usage Rate: 2% – 6%
• Phase: Add to heated oil phase
• Ideal For: Lotions, Creams, Balms, Hair Masks, Baby Care

🧴 Combine Ceto-Stearyl Alcohol with lightweight esters like Isoamyl Laurate for rich, fast-absorbing moisturizers that feel non-greasy and smooth on the skin.

✔️ Suitable for all skin types

✔️ Excellent for sensitive and baby skin

✔️ Non-comedogenic and non-irritating

1. Body Lotion Base

Use 3–5% with emulsifying wax to create a rich yet fast-absorbing lotion.

2. Leave-In Hair Conditioner

Combine 2–3% Ceto-Stearyl Alcohol with BTMS-50 or other conditioning agents for detangling and softness.

3. Skin Barrier Cream

Use 4% in heavier moisturizers to enhance protection and structure.

4. Facial Cream for Dry Skin

Use 3% with humectants like glycerin or sodium PCA for deep moisturization.

5. Lip Balm Enhancer

Add 1–2% in balm formulas for a smoother, less sticky finish.

Serums
⭐☆☆☆☆ – Poor
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Not ideal for lightweight formulations.



Creams & Lotions
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Excellent
🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩 – Adds ideal texture, stability, and skin feel.



Toners
☆☆☆☆☆ – Not Suitable
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Incompatible with water-thin systems.



Face Masks
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜ – Enhances spread and consistency.



Cleansers
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜ – Suitable for creamy and balm cleansers.



Hair Masks
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Excellent
🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩 – Offers softness, slip, and structure.



Deodorants
⭐⭐⭐☆☆ – Moderate
🟧🟧🟧⬜⬜ – Useful in solid and cream deodorants.



Eye Creams
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜ – Stable and gentle on delicate areas.



Shampoos
⭐☆☆☆☆ – Poor
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Not used in clear liquid shampoos.



Soaps
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜ – Sometimes used in melt & pour bars.



Conditioners
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Excellent
🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩 – Boosts creaminess and comb-through.



Lip Balms
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜ – Adds silky texture and reduces stickiness.



Body Butters
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Excellent
🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩 – Adds consistency and improved spread.



Ointments
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜ – Useful for thickness and structural support.

Q1: Is Ceto-Stearyl Alcohol drying or irritating?

A1: No — it is a moisturizing fatty alcohol, completely safe and non-irritating.

Q2: Can I use it in place of emulsifying wax?

A2: No — it's a co-emulsifier, not a complete emulsifier. Use it with E-Wax or Olivem 1000.

Q3: Is it vegan?

A3: Yes — usually plant-derived from coconut or palm, but confirm with supplier.