Cetyl alcohol

Cetyl alcohol, also known as 1-hexadecanol or palmityl alcohol, is a fatty alcohol that is commonly used in the cosmetics and personal care industry. It is a white, waxy solid that is insoluble in water and has a mild, characteristic odor.

History

Cetyl alcohol was first discovered in 1817 by the French chemist Michel Chevreul. He isolated it from sperm whale oil, hence its original name, "cetin", derived from the Latin cetus meaning whale. Today, cetyl alcohol is primarily derived from palm oil and coconut oil.

Properties and Uses

Cetyl alcohol is a long-chain fatty alcohol with the chemical formula C16H34O. It has a melting point of 49-50 degrees Celsius and a boiling point of 344 degrees Celsius. It is non-toxic and is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products.

In the cosmetics industry, cetyl alcohol is used as an emollient, emulsifier, thickener, and surfactant. It is found in a wide range of products, including skin care products, hair care products, and makeup. It helps to soften and smooth the skin, prevent the separation of oil and water in products, and improve the texture and consistency of products.

Health and Safety

Cetyl alcohol is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products. However, some people may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions to cetyl alcohol. It is recommended to perform a patch test before using a new product containing cetyl alcohol.

Environmental Impact

Cetyl alcohol is biodegradable and is not considered to be harmful to the environment. However, the production of cetyl alcohol from palm oil can contribute to deforestation and the loss of biodiversity.

See Also

• Fatty alcohol
• Cosmetics
• Personal care
• Emollient
• Emulsifier
• Surfactant