Ingredient
Cetearyl Alcohol
What is Cetearyl Alcohol?
Cetearyl Alcohol is a fatty alcohol that is commonly derived from natural sources like coconut oil or palm oil. It appears as a white, waxy solid often used in various personal care products.
This ingredient is primarily used as an emulsifier and thickener in cosmetics and skincare products. It helps to stabilize and blend ingredients that typically don't mix well, like oils and water. Cetearyl Alcohol is generally considered safe, with limited evidence of adverse effects at typical levels used in products.
When you see Cetearyl Alcohol on a label, it's worth noting that, despite the name 'alcohol,' it doesn't dry out the skin. It actually provides moisturizing properties and a smoother texture in formulations.
Commonly found in: Body Lotion, Deodorant, Sunscreen, Makeup, Hair Care
Cetearyl Alcohol is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in personal care products.
Scientific studies indicate it is non-irritating and suitable for most skin types.
Cetearyl Alcohol itself is typically plant-derived, making it suitable for vegan formulations.
Sources: Final Report of the Safety Assessment of Cetearyl Alcohol
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 FreeFound in 25 products
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