Cetyl alcohol (inci)

Cetyl alcohol (from the Latin cetacea = whale), also known as palmityl alcohol, is a saturated, long-chain, monohydric alcohol with the molecular formula C16H340. Cetyl alcohol belongs to the group of fatty alcohols.

Cetyl alcohol usually occurs as a mixture of several higher fatty alcohols. The mixture is a white, waxy mass in the form of matt-glossy grains and flakes.

The fatty alcohol is insoluble in water, easily soluble in ethyl alcohol, ether, chloroform. When melted, cetyl alcohol is miscible with other fats or kerosenes. It is obtained from coconut oil, for example.

Cetyl alcohol and its derivatives are well tolerated components in cosmetic products. They make the skin supple and smooth. Cetyl alcohol also acts as an emulsifier and opacifier (clouds the transparency and translucency of cosmetic products).

Cetyl alcohol is the scaffolding agent in Unguentum polyethylenglycoli, the polyethylene glycol ointment.