Cetostearyl Alcohol (CAS 67762-27-0), widely recognized in the industry as Cetearyl Alcohol, is a versatile fatty alcohol mixture utilizing its amphiphilic structure to function as a universal emulsion stabilizer and viscosity builder in cosmetic formulations. For an ethoxylated C16-18 nonionic emulsifier, Ceteareth-23 is a related material to evaluate. Chemically identified as a mixture of Cetyl alcohol (C16) and Stearyl alcohol (C18), this white waxy solid functions to form lamellar gel networks in oil-in-water emulsions, significantly enhancing the texture, stability, and carrying capacity of creams and lotions. As a vegetable-derived Fatty alcohol (typically from palm or coconut oil), it is extensively integrated into hair conditioners, face creams, and depilatories to provide a velvety skin feel and opacity without the greasy residue of waxes. We ensure bulk supply capabilities for this material, providing access to competitive factory pricing and customized specifications to meet specific C16/C18 ratios (e.g., 30/70, 50/50, or 70/30). Full technical documentation, including MSDS, TDS, COA, is available to support compliance and safety protocols.
Cetostearyl Alcohol CAS 67762-27-0
- CAS: 67762-27-0
- Synonyms: Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol, C16-18 Alcohols, Alcohols C16-18, C16-18 Fatty alcohol
- Einecs: 267-008-6
- Grade: Cosmetic Grade / Pharma Grade
- Package: 25kg/Paper Bag (Poly-lined) or 25kg/Woven Bag.
Product Description
Cetostearyl Alcohol is a non-ionic surfactant produced from the hydrogenation of vegetable oils (Palm Oil or Coconut Oil). Unlike liquid ethanol, this is a “fatty” alcohol, meaning it moisturizes and conditions rather than dries the skin.
Core Functions:
- Viscosity Builder: It creates the creamy structure in lotions and creams.
- Emulsion Stabilizer: It strengthens the interface between oil and water, preventing separation.
- Opacifier: It gives clear formulations a luxurious, opaque white appearance.
- Emollient: It leaves a soft, non-greasy film on the skin and hair.
Physicochemical Properties
The data below represents the most common commercial specification (Type 30/70, widely used for high viscosity creams).
| Parameter | Specification (Standard) |
|---|---|
| Appearance | White flakes, pellets, or pastilles |
| Odor | Mild, characteristic waxy odor |
| Acid Value | ≤ 0.5 mg KOH/g |
| Iodine Value | ≤ 0.5 g I2/100g |
| Saponification Value | ≤ 1.0 mg KOH/g |
| Hydroxyl Value | 205 – 225 mg KOH/g |
| Melting Point | 48°C – 54°C |
| Water Content | ≤ 0.3% |
| C16 (Cetyl Alcohol) Content | 22% – 32% (or customized 50/50) |
| C18 (Stearyl Alcohol) Content | 66% – 76% (or customized 50/50) |
| Color (APHA/Hazen) | ≤ 10 (Melting state) |
Applications
- Skin Care (Creams & Lotions):
- Used as the primary thickener and bodying agent. It determines the “stiffness” of the cream.
- Hair Care (Conditioners & Masks):
- Provides slip and detangling properties. It is the base of almost all hair conditioners combined with cationic surfactants.
- Surfactant Manufacturing:
- Used as a raw material to produce ethoxylated emulsifiers (e.g., Ceteareth-20, Ceteareth-25).
- Pharmaceuticals:
- Used as an emulsifying wax base in medicated ointments and creams.
For related emulsifier raw materials commonly considered with fatty alcohols, see Cetearyl Glucoside and Steareth-21.
Storage Conditions
- Temperature: Store in a cool, dry area, preferably below 40°C. Avoid high temperatures as the product may fuse or melt (melting point is ~50°C).
- Ventilation: Keep the storage area well-ventilated.
- Stacking: Do not stack pallets too high to prevent pressure caking of the bottom bags.
- Shelf Life: 24 months in original unopened packaging.
Safety Precautions
- Handling: Generally non-toxic and non-irritating to the skin in its raw form.
- Eye Contact: May cause mild mechanical irritation. Flush with water if particles enter eyes.
- Flammability: Combustible solid. Keep away from open flames and strong oxidizing agents.
- Environmental: Biodegradable. Do not discharge into drains in large quantities due to potential clogging (solidifies when cool).
FAQ - Technical & Supply Chain
-
Q:
What is Cetostearyl Alcohol CAS 67762-27-0?
A: Cetostearyl Alcohol CAS 67762-27-0, also known as cetearyl alcohol or C16-18 alcohols, is a non-ionic fatty alcohol blend mainly composed of cetyl alcohol (C16) and stearyl alcohol (C18). It is typically derived from vegetable sources such as palm oil or coconut oil and is used as an emollient, thickener, emulsion stabilizer, and opacifier. -
Q:
How does the C16/C18 ratio affect Cetostearyl Alcohol performance?
A: The ratio between cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol controls melting point, hardness, opacity, and viscosity-building power. A higher stearyl alcohol content, such as 30/70, gives a harder and more opaque structure with higher viscosity, while a balanced 50/50 ratio usually produces a softer consistency and a lighter feel. -
Q:
Why is Cetostearyl Alcohol described as a co-emulsifier rather than a primary emulsifier?
A: It does not form stable oil-in-water emulsions by itself, but it strengthens the interface created by primary emulsifiers. It is commonly combined with ceteareth-20, glyceryl stearate, or other hydrophilic emulsifiers to improve viscosity, reduce separation, and give creams a smooth, stable texture. -
Q:
What cosmetic and personal-care applications is Cetostearyl Alcohol suitable for?
A: It is widely used in creams, lotions, body butters, ointments, hair conditioners, hair masks, and styling formulations. In these products it contributes a creamy consistency, leaves a soft non-greasy film, helps stabilize oil and water phases, and increases the perceived richness of the formula. -
Q:
What are the typical specifications and storage conditions for Cetostearyl Alcohol CAS 67762-27-0?
A: Common cosmetic and pharma grades are white flakes, pellets, or pastilles with a mild waxy odor, a melting point near 48-54 degrees C, and low acid, iodine, and saponification values. It should be kept in tightly closed containers in a cool, dry place away from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight.
Ordering & Documentation
Key information for document requests, quotations, and supply planning.
Documents
COA, TDS, SDS/MSDS and packing details are available on request.
Quotation
Send the CAS number, grade, quantity, packing preference and destination.
Sample & Supply
Support is available for samples, trial orders, bulk and repeat supply.
Storage & Shipping
Product-specific conditions are confirmed before order.

