Ingredient · Updated

Cetearyl Alcohol

Neutral in 25

Found in 25 productsSee all

What is Cetearyl Alcohol?

Cetearyl Alcohol is a fatty alcohol commonly derived from natural oils, such as coconut or palm oil. It is a white, waxy substance that results from the combination of cetyl and stearyl alcohols.

It is primarily used in personal care products to stabilize and thicken formulations as well as to improve the texture and hydration properties. Despite its name, cetearyl alcohol is not a 'drying' alcohol like ethanol; it's more similar to a moisturizing ingredient.

When you see cetearyl alcohol on a label, it usually indicates that the product has a creamy consistency and likely provides moisturizing benefits.

Commonly found in: Body Lotion, Deodorant, Sunscreen, Makeup, Hair Care

Benefits

  • Helps stabilize emulsions, making products smoother.
  • Acts as a moistening agent, enhancing skin feel.
FDA

Cetearyl Alcohol is approved for use in cosmetics and is considered safe by the FDA.

Research

Research indicates that it is a safe and effective emulsifier and moisturizing agent with low irritancy potential.

Vegan

Cetearyl Alcohol can be plant-derived, but sourcing may vary. Verification with the manufacturer is recommended for strict vegans.

Sources: Cetearyl Alcohol Safety Data · Fatty Alcohols in Personal Care Products

Scout's take

Fatty-alcohol emulsifier — not a drying 'alcohol'; inert in formulations.

The case against

There are minimal risks, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive individuals.

from the analysis of Sol De Janeiro Bom Dia Bright Body Cream · echoed in 1 other analysis

There are minimal risks associated with Cetearyl Alcohol, primarily related to potential sensitivity in rare cases.

from the analysis of Cocokind Daily Sunscreen - SPF 32

There are minimal risks, primarily related to potential skin irritation in sensitive individuals.

from the analysis of Sol De Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Cream

There are minimal risks, primarily limited to rare cases of skin irritation.

from the analysis of hello bello Mineral SPF55+ Sunscreen Lotion with Prebiotics for Babies and Kids

The case for

It provides moisturizing benefits and improves the texture of cosmetic formulations.

from the analysis of The INKEY List Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Body Stick, Size:, None · echoed in 1 other analysis

It helps to improve the texture and stability of the product.

from the analysis of Cocokind Daily Sunscreen - SPF 32 · echoed in 1 other analysis

Cetearyl Alcohol helps improve the texture and consistency of the lotion.

from the analysis of Eucerin Advanced Repair Lotion for Very Dry Skin Bottle

It provides moisturizing properties and enhances the product's texture.

from the analysis of hello bello Mineral SPF55+ Sunscreen Lotion with Prebiotics for Babies and Kids

It provides a creamy texture and helps to soften and smooth the skin.

from the analysis of Sol De Janeiro Bom Dia Bright Body Cream

More from Scout's analyses

Cetearyl Alcohol is a fatty alcohol used as an emollient and thickener. It helps stabilize and thicken formulations. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.

from the analysis of Sol De Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Cream

Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.

from the analysis of The Honest Company Sensitive Face + Body Lotion Fragrance Free

All 25 products with Cetearyl Alcohol

+ 1 more products in the Scout app

Where Cetearyl Alcohol shows up

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