CETYL ALCOHOL- ▸ Emollient: Skin-conditioning C16 fatty alcohol for creams and lotions
- ▸ Emulsion modifier: Co-emulsifier and stiffening agent in emulsified bases
- ▸ Opacifier and thickener: Builds body and opacity in personal-care systems
- ▸ Detergent foam: Foam stabilizer in surfactant blends
- ▸ Chemical intermediate: Feedstock for sulfated fatty-alcohol surfactants
A grade-specific Safety Data Sheet (SDS) — with the complete hazard classification, handling precautions, and transport information — is supplied with every shipment and available on request. Confirm all safety and regulatory details against the SDS for your specific grade.
Request SDS →Cetyl alcohol (CAS 36653-82-4) is the saturated C16 fatty alcohol 1-hexadecanol. It is used as an emollient, emulsion modifier, and opacifying agent in cosmetics and as an emulsifying and stiffening aid in pharmaceutical preparations. Additional applications include foam stabilization in detergents and use as a feedstock for sulfated fatty-acid derivatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is cetyl alcohol actually alcohol?
Cetyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol, the saturated C16 chain 1-hexadecanol (C16H34O). Chemically it carries an -OH group, but it is a waxy solid, unlike volatile drying alcohols such as ethanol. It functions as an emollient, emulsion modifier, and thickener.
Why is cetyl alcohol used in lotion?
It acts as an emollient, co-emulsifier, opacifier, and stiffening agent, building body and viscosity in emulsified bases. It helps structure oil-in-water creams and lotions and stabilize the emulsion. RawSource supplies cosmetic and pharmaceutical-grade material in bulk.
What is the difference between cetyl alcohol and cetearyl alcohol?
Cetyl alcohol is the single C16 fatty alcohol (CAS 36653-82-4), while cetearyl alcohol is a blend of C16 and C18 fatty alcohols. The blend offers different consistency and emulsion behavior. Both are used as emollients and thickeners.
What is cetyl alcohol made from?
Cetyl alcohol is the C16 fatty alcohol 1-hexadecanol, produced from fatty-acid feedstocks. It also serves as a feedstock for sulfated fatty-alcohol surfactants. RawSource supplies it as a solid in flake, prill, or pastille form.
What is the HS code and packaging for bulk cetyl alcohol?
It is typically classified under HS 290517 (saturated fatty alcohols) and ships as a solid in bags, drums, or supersacks. A CoA and SDS accompany each lot. Submit a bulk RFQ for current pricing on your target volume.