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| Catalog Number | CI-HC-0050 |
| Product Name | Cetyl Alcohol |
| CAS | 36653-82-4 |
| Structure |  |
| Synonyms | 1-Hexadecanol;n-Hexadecanol |
| Description | All-purpose thickening alcohol (1-hexadecanol, hexadecyl or palmityl alcohol), derived from vegetable oils, > 95%, composed of fatty alcohols |
| IUPAC Name | Hexadecan-1-ol |
| Molecular Weight | 242.44 g/mol |
| Molecular Formula | C16H34O |
| Canonical SMILES | CCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCO |
| InChI | BXWNKGSJHAJOGX-UHFFFAOYSA-N |
| InChI Key | InChI=1S/C16H34O/c1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9-10-11-12-13-14-15-16-17/h17H,2-16H2,1H3 |
| Boiling Point | 179-181 °C 10mmHg(lit.) |
| Melting Point | 48-50 °C(lit.) |
| Density | 0.818 g/mL |
| Solubility | Water-insoluble, partially solubility in hot water (1.34x10-5 g/l); soluble in diethyl ether and acetone, slightly soluble in alcohol |
| Appearance | White flakes or pellets, no or faint odor |
| Application | Lotions, creams, hair shampoos, hair conditioners, body washes, makeup products. |
| Storage | Store in a closed container at a dry place at room temperature |
| Composition | Cetyl alcohol |
| Features And Benefits | Non-gelling thickener and viscosity enhancer (also in water-free products like lipsticks)Has co-emulsifying properties if concentration is higher than 5 %Has mild emollient and moisturizing propertiesCan boost foam when together with surfactants |
| GMO | GMONo data available |
| HS Code | 2905170000 |
| INCI | Cetyl alcohol |
| Manufacture | Cetyl alcohol is made by catalytic hydrogenation of triglycerides and followed by oxidation of a chain growth product of ethylene oligomerized on a triethylaluminum catalyst. |
| Preservation | Preservative-free |
| Purity Grade | No purity grade applicable |
| Raw Material Source | Palm kernel oil (RSPO certified) |
| Uses | Add to hot oil phase to melt for proper use (54°C/129°F). Typical use level 0.5-6%. For external use only. |
Cetyl alcohol, also known as 1-Hexadecanol, is a fatty alcohol derived from palm oil, comprising 16 carbon atoms. It is a white, odorless solid in flake form and serves multiple functions in skincare and pharmaceutical formulations. As an emollient, emulsifier, and thickener, cetyl alcohol enhances the water-retaining properties of absorption bases, particularly in water-in-oil emulsions. It significantly boosts viscosity and consistency when present at concentrations around 5%, making it effective in creams, lotions, and emulsion bases. This compound stabilizes oil-in-water emulsions, resulting in soft, translucent creams. Additionally, cetyl alcohol plays a crucial role in anhydrous systems and water-in-oil emulsions by improving their water-absorbing capabilities. It is also used in anhydrous stick formulations to adjust texture and provide structure without gelling.
What is Cetyl Alcohol, and what are its primary uses?
Cetyl Alcohol, also known as 1-Hexadecanol, is a fatty alcohol composed of 16 carbon atoms. Derived from palm oil, it appears as white solid flakes and can be odorless or have a faint scent. It is primarily used in skincare and pharmaceutical products as an emollient, emulsifier, thickener, and carrying agent. Its functions include stabilizing emulsions, improving water retention, and enhancing the consistency of various formulations.
How does Cetyl Alcohol contribute to skincare formulations?
In skincare products, Cetyl Alcohol acts as an emollient, providing a moisturizing effect by attracting moisture to the skin. It is a non-drying alcohol that helps stabilize oil-in-water emulsions, resulting in creams that are soft and translucent. It can also enhance the viscosity and consistency of products, making it valuable in creating rich, smooth textures.
Is Cetyl Alcohol soluble in water?
Cetyl Alcohol is soluble in both water and alcohol, which contributes to its versatility in various formulation types, including emulsions and anhydrous systems. Its solubility makes it effective in improving the water-absorbing capacity of the products, allowing for a stable and consistent texture.
Can Cetyl Alcohol be used in anhydrous products?
Yes, Cetyl Alcohol is frequently used in anhydrous systems, such as lipsticks and other waterless sticks, to modify the texture or structure. It is effective in creating formulas that require a sturdy yet consistent medium, allowing for better water retention and an improved feel on application.
What differentiates Cetyl Alcohol from other fatty alcohols like Stearyl Alcohol?
While structurally similar to Stearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol has a slightly different crystalline structure and polarity. This property affects the viscosity of simple emulsions, often resulting in a lower viscosity compared to other fatty alcohols. This unique characteristic makes it ideal for specific applications, especially in emulsifying and thickening water-in-oil and anhydrous formulations.
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