Cetostearyl Alcohol is a plant-derived fatty alcohol blend that functions as an emulsifier, emulsion stabiliser, emollient, and viscosity modifier in cosmetic formulations. This white waxy ingredient provides structure and stability to creams, lotions, and conditioners.

About Cetostearyl Alcohol

Also known as Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol or Vegarol 1618 TA, this versatile ingredient is derived from vegetable oils and coconut sources. Unlike drying alcohols, cetostearyl alcohol is a conditioning fatty alcohol that enhances product texture whilst providing emollient properties to both skin and hair formulations.

The ingredient appears as white waxy pastilles that melt easily during the heating phase of formulation, making it convenient for formulators across South Africa working with various batch sizes.

Formulation Uses

• Primary emulsifier for oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions
• Co-emulsifier and stabiliser for water-in-oil (W/O) systems
• Viscosity modifier for creams and lotions
• Emollient and conditioning agent in hair products
• Opacifier to create creamy white appearance
• Foam booster in cleansing formulations
• Structure provider in anhydrous balms and salves

Technical Specifications

• INCI Name: Cetostearyl Alcohol
• Origin: Plant-derived from vegetable oils
• Usage Rate: 1-10% depending on application
• Phase: Oil phase (requires heating to 60-70°C)
• Certifications: COSMOS, ECOCERT approved, naturally derived

Part of Kalós Cosmetics' curated selection of quality cosmetic ingredients for independent formulators and DIY enthusiasts.