Surfactants - Nonionic Available — Bulk Only

Cetyl Esters Wax (Synthetic Spermaceti)

A synthetic spermaceti-type wax that adds structure and a smooth, velvety slip to creams, sticks, and balms. It is used in cosmetic and topical formulations as an emollient and as a consistency- and viscosity-building (stiffening) agent.

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Material Family
Surfactants - Nonionic
At a Glance
Material Family
Surfactants - Nonionic
Record Type
Pure compound
Primary Role
Surfactancy · Emolliency
Functional Roles
SORBITAN SESQUIOLEATE
SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING
Applications & Use Cases
  • Emollient: Smoothing wax component in creams and balms
  • Consistency agent: Structures and stiffens emulsified and anhydrous bases
  • Viscosity control: Builds body in topical and cosmetic systems
Safety & Handling
Full SDS available on request

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.

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Chemical Identity
INCI Name
SORBITAN SESQUIOLEATE
Full Description

Cetyl esters wax (CAS 8007-43-0) is a synthetic wax composed of esters of saturated fatty acids and fatty alcohols, developed as a replacement for natural spermaceti. It is used in cosmetic and topical formulations as an emollient and as a consistency- and viscosity-building (stiffening) agent.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is cetyl esters wax used for?

Cetyl esters wax is used in cosmetic and topical formulations as an emollient and as a consistency- and viscosity-building (stiffening) agent. It structures creams, balms, and emulsified bases and adds smoothness. It was developed as a synthetic replacement for natural spermaceti.

What is another name for cetyl esters wax?

It is also called synthetic spermaceti or cetyl ester wax NF. The CAS is 8007-43-0. It is composed of esters of saturated fatty acids and fatty alcohols, designed to replace natural spermaceti in formulations.

What is the difference between cetyl esters wax and cetyl alcohol?

Cetyl esters wax is a blend of fatty-acid/fatty-alcohol esters, while cetyl alcohol is a single fatty alcohol. The wax is a structuring/consistency agent; cetyl alcohol is an emollient and co-emulsifier. They are distinct INCI materials used for different formulation roles.

What does the 'NF' grade designation mean for cetyl ester wax?

NF indicates the material is represented as meeting the National Formulary monograph specifications for that grade. Confirm the actual grade and specifications against the CoA for your lot. RawSource supplies the CoA and SDS with each shipment.

What bulk packaging is cetyl ester wax NF available in?

As a solid wax it typically ships in bags, drums, or supersacks depending on volume; HS classification is generally 340490. A CoA and SDS accompany each lot. Submit a bulk RFQ with your target volume and packaging for a quote.

Disclaimer. Information on this page — including properties, identifiers, hazard, transport (DOT/UN) and tariff (HS) classifications, and applications — is provided for general reference and is compiled from authoritative public sources (e.g. PubChem/ECHA, 49 CFR 172.101, the Harmonized Tariff Schedule). Values are typical and are not a guaranteed specification; the Certificate of Analysis (CoA) for the lot purchased governs. Products are sold for industrial and professional use only. Nothing here is a medical, health, or efficacy claim or advice. Always consult the current Safety Data Sheet (SDS) before handling, storage, transport or disposal, and confirm regulatory status, classification and suitability for your application and jurisdiction. Hazard, transport and tariff classifications must be verified for your specific shipment. RawSource makes no warranty, express or implied, and assumes no liability for use of this information. Trademarks. Third-party trademarks and brand names are the property of their respective owners; any reference is nominative — used only to identify a comparable product — and does not imply affiliation with, sponsorship by, or endorsement by the trademark owner.