Cetyl Alcohol

CETYL ALCOHOL

Data confidence:High
Malassezia Trigger

Can feed malassezia yeast, potentially worsening malassezia-related skin conditions. Avoid if you are malassezia-sensitive.

Function

Emollient, Emulsifier

EWG Safety Score

1/10Low concern

About this ingredient

A fatty alcohol derived from natural sources like coconut or palm oil, or synthetically produced, used primarily as an emollient, thickener, and emulsion stabilizer in cosmetics. It improves texture and creates a smooth, conditioning feel on skin while helping stabilize formulations by binding water and oil phases together in creams, lotions, and personal care products.

Found in 1+ sunscreens