Ingredient · Updated
Cetearyl Alcohol
Found in 25 productsSee all
NOW Solutions Long-Lasting Deodorant Unscented
Confidita Sunscreen Face & Body SPF 50+
W3LL People Bio Brightener Priming Serum
BASED Conditioner
Babo Botanicals Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 Sunscreen
BASED Leave In Conditioner (Santal)
JAFRA Cosmetics Rich Body Emulsion Sweet Almond
UCANBE Spotlight 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.
Cetearyl Alcohol is approved for use in cosmetics and is considered safe by the FDA.
Research indicates that it is a safe and effective emulsifier and moisturizing agent with low irritancy potential.
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 analysisGenerally safe, but may cause mild irritation in very sensitive skin.
from the analysis of The Honest Company Sensitive Face + Body Lotion Fragrance Free · echoed in 1 other analysisThere are minimal risks associated with Cetearyl Alcohol, primarily related to potential sensitivity in rare cases.
from the analysis of Cocokind Daily Sunscreen - SPF 32There are minimal risks, primarily related to potential skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
from the analysis of Sol De Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum CreamThere 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 KidsThe 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 analysisIt helps to improve the texture and stability of the product.
from the analysis of Cocokind Daily Sunscreen - SPF 32 · echoed in 1 other analysisCetearyl Alcohol helps improve the texture and consistency of the lotion.
from the analysis of Eucerin Advanced Repair Lotion for Very Dry Skin BottleIt provides moisturizing properties and enhances the product's texture.
from the analysis of hello bello Mineral SPF55+ Sunscreen Lotion with Prebiotics for Babies and KidsIt provides a creamy texture and helps to soften and smooth the skin.
from the analysis of Sol De Janeiro Bom Dia Bright Body CreamMore from Scout's analyses
Fatty alcohol emollient/thickener.
from the analysis of Curél Ultra Healing Intensive Moisture LotionCetearyl 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 CreamStandard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.
from the analysis of The Honest Company Sensitive Face + Body Lotion Fragrance FreeAll 25 products with Cetearyl Alcohol
+ 1 more products in the Scout app
Where Cetearyl Alcohol shows up
- Body Lotion 11 products
- Sunscreen 6 products
- Makeup 4 products
- Hair Care 3 products
- Deodorant 1 product
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