Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol

Cetyl stearyl alcohol (cetearyl alcohol) is a mixture of cetyl alcohol (C16) and stearyl alcohol (C18), two long-chain fatty alcohols. It is a white, waxy solid that is widely used in cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and personal care industries.

This mixture exhibits excellent emulsification and emollient properties, making it one of the most commonly used co-emulsifiers and stabilizers in o/w and w/o emulsions. It helps create stable, smooth-textured creams and lotions.

Commercially, cetyl stearyl alcohol is produced from the reduction of corresponding fatty acids derived from palm or coconut oil.

Uses

Cetyl stearyl alcohol is a primary co-emulsifier and emollient in the formulation of creams, lotions, skin care products, and hair conditioners. It forms a lamellar liquid crystalline phase in combination with emulsifiers such as ceteareth-20, providing excellent emulsion stability, a rich texture, and enhanced moisturization by occlusively locking moisture into the skin.

In hair care products, cetearyl alcohol is a key ingredient in conditioners and treatments, where it deposits on the hair to improve softness, reduce tangling, and impart shine. It is also used in hair bleaching creams and permanent wave formulations.

Pharmaceutical applications include use as an excipient in topical creams and ointments. Cetearyl alcohol is listed in the USP, Ph.Eur., and BP as an approved excipient under the name "Cetostearyl Alcohol." It is a component of cetomacrogol emulsifying wax and other approved emulsifying bases.

Industrial applications include use in polish formulations, surfactant production (ethoxylation to produce ceteareth-n non-ionic surfactants), and as a processing aid in rubber and plastic compounding.

Methods of Manufacturing

Cetyl stearyl alcohol is produced by catalytic hydrogenation of fatty acid methyl esters derived from palm oil or coconut oil using copper chromite or copper-zinc oxide catalysts at elevated temperature and pressure. The hydrogenation converts the ester groups to hydroxyl groups, yielding the corresponding fatty alcohol.

Fractional distillation of the crude fatty alcohol product yields different cuts with varying C16:C18 ratios. Typical commercial cetearyl alcohol contains approximately 30% cetyl alcohol (C16) and 70% stearyl alcohol (C18), though other ratios are also available. Quality is controlled by GC purity analysis, melting range, acid value, hydroxyl value, iodine value, and color (APHA).

Hazard Summary

Low acute toxicity. Generally regarded as safe for cosmetic use. May cause mild irritation on prolonged skin or eye contact.

Fire Hazard

Combustible solid. Dust may form explosive mixtures in air.

Skin, Eye & Respiratory Irritations

Mild skin and eye irritation possible on prolonged or repeated contact.

Physical Dangers

Combustible solid; dust may form explosive mixtures.

Skin First Aid

Wash with soap and water.

Eye First Aid

Rinse eyes with water for several minutes.

Ingestion First Aid

Not considered significantly toxic. Seek medical advice if large amounts ingested.

Fire Fighting Procedures

Use CO₂, foam, or dry chemical. Water may be used to cool surrounding structures.

Nonfire Spill Response

Small spill: Sweep or vacuum up. Avoid generating dust. Collect in closed containers for disposal. For molten spill, allow to solidify before collection. Warn of slip hazard on solidification.

Large spill: Contain spill. Prevent entry into drains. Collect mechanically after solidification. Clean residual with hot water and detergent.

Safe Storage

Store in original, well-sealed containers in a cool, dry, ventilated area. Keep away from heat, ignition sources, and strong oxidizing agents. Moisture should be avoided to prevent product degradation. Bulk melt storage tanks should be maintained at 55–65 °C and fitted with inert gas blankets.

Storage Conditions

Recommended storage temperature: 15–30 °C (solid). Melt storage: 55–65 °C. Shelf life: 24 months in sealed packaging. Suitable containers: HDPE drums/bags, stainless steel tanks. Avoid PVC containers for melt storage. Store in a dry warehouse; protect from moisture.