Cetyl Alcohol
INCI: Cetearyl Alcohol
Reviewed by Emma · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: Cetearyl Alcohol, Fatty Alcohol, Alcohol
Fatty alcohol used as an emollient, emulsifier, and thickening agent Can be naturally or synthetically derived
EWG Safety Score
What Is Cetyl Alcohol?
Cetyl alcohol is a gentle fatty alcohol and covalent (that is, non-ionic) compound. Cetyl alcohol is used as an emollient (moisturizing ingredient), emulsifier, thickener, and carrying agent for other ingredients. It can be derived naturally, as in coconut fatty alcohol, or made synthetically. Both forms are considered safe and effective for skin.
It is one of the longest-known fatty alcohols in skin care, having been discovered in 1913, when a French chemist isolated it from whale oil (hence the name “cetyl”, which is derived from Cetacea, the taxonomical infraorder in which whales are classified).
It is not related to SD alcohol, denatured alcohol, or ethyl alcohol. There have been some reports of irritation with cetyl alcohol in compromised skin; however, this is thought to be from impurities in the refining process and not from cetyl alcohol itself. Cetyl alcohol is considered safe for use in cosmetics, even in amounts surpassing 50% (although its typical usage range is 5–10%). It is not known to clog pores.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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Cetyl alcohol as a cosmetic ingredient Int J Toxicol, 1988
Frequently Asked Questions
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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)
Cetearyl Ethylhexanoate
Ester of cetearyl alcohol and 2-ethylhexanoic acid
Cetyl Esters
Synthetic wax that replaces spermaceti (wax from sperm whales)
Cetyl Palmitate
Ester of cetyl alcohol and palmitic acid
Chlorinated Paraffin
A synthetic oil that conditions and protects skin whilst controlling product texture
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