Cetearyl Ethylhexanoate
INCI: Cetearyl Alcohol (Related Ingredient)
Reviewed by Emma · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: Cetearyl Alcohol (Related Ingredient)
Ester of cetearyl alcohol and 2-ethylhexanoic acid
At a glance
EWG Safety Score
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What Is Cetearyl Ethylhexanoate?
Cetearyl ethylhexanoate is a clear, oil-like, water-resistant liquid that functions as an emollient to defend skin against moisture loss. It is the ester of cetearyl alcohol and 2-ethylhexanoic acid. Despite its emollient properties, it is considered non-occlusive.\n\nIn addition to its moisturizing properties, it adds an elegant slip to creams and lotions and is oxygen-stable. The maximum concentration of use of cetearyl ethylhexanoate is 35% in leave-on products. The independent Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel has found cetearyl ethylhexanoate to be non-irritating and safe as used in cosmetics.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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CosmeticsInfo.org, Accessed December 2021, ePublication CosmeticsInfo.org, 2021
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PubChem, Accessed December 2021, ePublication PubChem, 2021
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Cosmetics, February 2016, ePublication Cosmetics, 2016
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International Journal of Toxicology, November-December 2015, pages 61S–73S International Journal of Toxicology, 2015
How widely it's used
Regulatory information
Standardised cosmetic-ingredient identifiers used by regulators.
Show identifiers
- INCI Name
- CETEARYL ETHYLHEXANOATE
- EC Number
- 291-445-1
- Function
- Emollient, Hair Conditioning, Skin Conditioning
From the Clinic
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Ceratonia Siliqua (Carob) Gum
Made from the carob tree Also known as locust bean gum
Ceresin
A wax-derived stabiliser that helps formulations maintain texture and feel
Cetearyl Alcohol
Fatty alcohol with emollient (softening/smoothing) properties for skin Known to be gentle and safe (unlike skin-damaging/drying forms of alcohol such as SD or denatured)
Cetyl Alcohol
Fatty alcohol used as an emollient, emulsifier, and thickening agent Can be naturally or synthetically derived
Cetyl Esters
Synthetic wax that replaces spermaceti (wax from sperm whales)
Cetyl Palmitate
Ester of cetyl alcohol and palmitic acid
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