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Moumoujus

CETYL ALCOHOL.

Essential CAS 36653-82-4 / EMULSION STABILISING, FRAGRANCE, OPACIFYING, SKIN CONDITIONING - EMOLLIENT, SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING, SURFACTANT - FOAM BOOSTING, VISCOSITY CONTROLLING

A non-drying fatty alcohol that functions as a fundamental structural component in high-performance emulsions. It provides a signature velvety skin feel while simultaneously reinforcing the lipid barrier to prevent moisture loss.

Summary

emollient viscosity controlling emulsifying surfactant opacifying

Science

Mechanism of Action

It acts as a lipid-rich emollient that forms a breathable occlusive layer on the stratum corneum, effectively reducing Trans-Epidermal Water Loss (TEWL). Furthermore, it organizes the internal structure of formulas as a co-emulsifier and viscosity builder, stabilizing the interface between oil and water phases.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 1–12%
Optimal

5%

Key findings

  1. 01 A maximization test on 26 subjects at a 12% concentration in petrolatum confirmed zero sensitization reactions.
  2. 02 Clinical evaluation of 205 subjects at a 2% concentration demonstrated no significant irritation or contact sensitization.
  3. 03 Safety assessments of formulations containing up to 8.4% Cetyl Alcohol showed no evidence of skin irritation across diverse testing groups.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted
Min. effective
0.5%
Red flag below
0.1%

As a functional fatty alcohol used for viscosity and emulsion stability, it is rarely 'dusted' for marketing claims; it is typically included at levels above 1% to achieve necessary formula thickness.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH 2 – 11
0 7 14

Stability

Highly resistant to oxidation; requires heating to its melting point of 49-51°C for successful integration into the oil phase.

Synergies

  • Stearic Acid
  • Glyceryl Stearate
  • Ceteareth-20

Conflicts

  • Strong oxidizing agents
  • Strong acids
  • Strong bases

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
25%
Pregnancy
Safe
Sensitization risk Low

Reaffirmed safe by the CIR Expert Panel in 2005 and FDA-approved as an OTC skin protectant and food additive.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Verdict

Essential

An indispensable, non-irritating fatty alcohol that provides critical structural integrity to formulas while ensuring long-term hydration.

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References

Sources