Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetostearyl Alcohol, C16-18 Alcohol, 67762-27-0, 8005-44-5, 67762-30-5

Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetostearyl Alcohol, C16-18 Alcohol, 67762-27-0, 8005-44-5, 67762-30-5

CETEARYL ALCOHOL (CETOSTEARYL ALCOHOL)

1. PRODUCT DEFINITION AND CHEMICAL IDENTITY

2. CAS NUMBER REFERENCE TABLE

Important Clarifications:

• EC number 267-008-6 belongs to CAS 67762-27-0.

• EC number 267-009-1 belongs to CAS 67762-30-5.

• All three CAS numbers are valid and accepted identifiers for Cetearyl Alcohol. The scope of 67762-30-5 is slightly broader (C14-18), but it is commercially used to describe standard Cetearyl Alcohol blends.

3. PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES

4. PRODUCT TYPES AND COMPARATIVE TABLE

The final consistency and sensory feel of the product are determined by the ratio of Cetyl (C16) to Stearyl (C18) alcohol.

5. FUNCTIONAL PROPERTIES AND MECHANISM OF ACTION

• Co-Emulsifier and Emulsion Stabilizer: Cetearyl alcohol is a non-ionic co-emulsifier. It strengthens the interfacial film formed by the primary emulsifier, preventing droplet coalescence and ensuring long-term emulsion stability. It works effectively in both oil-in-water (O/W) and water-in-oil (W/O) systems.

• Viscosity Builder / Consistency Modifier: It forms a three-dimensional crystalline gel network (lamellar phases) within the formulation, trapping the emulsion droplets and increasing the viscosity. This provides a rich, creamy texture that is easy to spread and leaves a lasting, luxurious feel on the skin.

• Emollient and Skin Conditioner: It forms a thin, protective, lipophilic film on the skin and hair surface. This film reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL), providing moisturization, softness, and a smooth, non-greasy skin feel.

• Opacifier: In liquid or gel-based formulations, it imparts a desirable matte, creamy, and opaque appearance, enhancing the product's visual aesthetics.

6. SECTORAL APPLICATIONS AND USAGE RATES

Critical Note: Cetearyl Alcohol is a co-emulsifier and thickener, not a primary emulsifier. It must always be used in combination with a suitable primary emulsifier (see Section 7) to achieve a stable emulsion.

7. RECOMMENDED EMULSIFIER COMBINATIONS (Generic INCI Names)

Cetearyl Alcohol must be paired with a stronger primary emulsifier. The most common combinations are:

8. REGULATORY STATUS, SAFETY, AND STORAGE

• GHS Classification: Not classified as a hazardous substance or mixture under CLP (EC 1272/2008).

• Toxicology: Very low acute oral, dermal, and inhalation toxicity. Not a significant skin or eye irritant at typical use concentrations. Considered to have very low sensitization (allergy) potential. Not carcinogenic, mutagenic, or reprotoxic.

• Comedogenicity: Generally considered non-comedogenic (low risk of clogging pores), making it suitable for acne-prone skin formulations.

• Cosmetic Use: Listed as a safe cosmetic ingredient by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel. Approved without restrictions under EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC 1223/2009).

• Sustainability: When derived from vegetable sources (coconut or palm oil), it is considered a natural, renewable, and biodegradable ingredient, widely used in natural and organic formulations.

• Storage: Store in a cool (<25 °C), dry, and well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and strong odours. Keep containers tightly closed.

• Shelf Life: Typically 2-3 years from the date of manufacture under proper storage conditions.

• Personal Protection: Standard industrial hygiene practices are sufficient (e.g., gloves, safety goggles for handling molten material).

9. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q1: What is the difference between Cetyl Alcohol and Cetearyl Alcohol?
Cetyl alcohol (C16) is a single, pure ingredient. Cetearyl alcohol is a blend of both cetyl alcohol (C16) and stearyl alcohol (C18). This blend offers superior emulsifying, stabilizing, and thickening properties compared to either component alone, making it the industry standard.

Q2: Is Cetearyl Alcohol harmful or drying to the skin?
No. Unlike simple, volatile alcohols like ethanol, it is a fatty, waxy alcohol that acts as an emollient. It forms a protective layer that prevents moisture loss, leaving the skin feeling smooth, soft, and conditioned without a greasy residue.

Q3: Is it suitable for natural or vegan formulations?
Yes. It is typically derived from plant-based sources like coconut or palm oil, making it suitable for both natural and vegan-friendly formulations. Always verify the source with your supplier.

Q4: What is its main function in a hair conditioner?
It acts as a thickener, giving the product a luxurious, rich texture. Simultaneously, it coats the hair strands, smoothing the cuticle, reducing static, and providing detangling and softening benefits.

Q5: Why must it be combined with another emulsifier?
Cetearyl alcohol is a co-emulsifier and thickener, not a primary emulsifier. It stabilizes an emulsion formed by a stronger, primary emulsifier. Using it alone will not reliably create a stable cream or lotion.

10. QUICK REFERENCE TABLE