Cetostearyl Alcohol

How does it work?

The alcohol group in cetearyl alcohol is attached to a long chain of hydrocarbons (fats). The fatty alcohols trap water in this way and provide a soothing touch to the skin. Chemicals that can leave the skin feeling smooth are called emollients.

Applications Or where it is used:

Cetearyl alcohol works on softening skin and hair and providing a thickening and stabilizing effect on cosmetic products, like lotions. The emollient properties of cetearyl alcohol are considered beneficial for the healing and soothing of dry skin.

Manufacturing process:

Cetearyl alcohol is made up of cetyl and stearyl alcohols. In order to manufacture stearyl alcohol, coconut or palm kernel oil is transesterified and distilled using methanol and zinc catalyst, and then methyl esters are hydrogenated with copper catalyst.

How to use:

Cetostearyl alcohol is a recognized emulsion stabilizer, opacifying agent, foam booster, and viscosity booster in the pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries. Creams and lotions commonly contain cetostearyl alcohol. The melting point is 122°F (50°C) and the boiling point is 480.2°F (249°C).

Side effects:

• Emollients can be safely used without side effects for the most part. It may, however, cause burning, stinging, or irritation. Tell your doctor or pharmacist as soon as possible if any of these effects persist or worsen.
• In recommending this medication to you, your doctor has determined that its benefits outweigh its possible risks. Few people are adversely affected by this medication.
• Any of these unlikely but serious side effects should be reported right away: unusual changes in the skin and signs of infection in the skin.
• An extremely serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. Please contact your physician if you notice any of these symptoms of a serious allergic reaction: rash, trouble breathing, itching and swelling or severe dizziness.
• These are not all the possible side effects.