Cetostearyl Alcohol (INCI: Cetearyl Alcohol) is a fatty alcohol blend made up primarily of two long‑chain alcohols — cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol. It is widely used in cosmetics, personal care, and pharmaceutical formulations as an emulsifier, emollient, thickener, stabilizer, and consistency agent. Unlike simple alcohols (e.g., ethanol), it does not dry out skin; instead it helps soften and smooth skin & hair and improves overall product texture
 
Applications: Creams, lotions & moisturizers — adds thickness & stabilizes emulsions. Hair conditioners & shampoos — improves softness and manageability.
Appearance:  White to off‑white, waxy solid in the form of flakes, pellets, or granules • Mild wax‑like odor
Solubility:  Insoluble in water (practically)
pH Range: As a non‑ionic fatty ingredient, it doesn’t have a true pH in isolation.
Chemical Formula: C18H38O
Cas. No: 67762‑27‑0