Cetyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol that acts as an emollient, emulsifier, and thickener in cosmetic products. It helps to soften and smooth the skin, prevent ingredients from separating, and give products a desirable texture. Despite its name, it is not a 'drying' alcohol.
NoneFatty alcohol, emollient, emulsifierEvidence: High
BenefitModerate 1.5 / 4
Hydration
Soothing
Texture
RiskLow 0.5 / 4
Rated by SpottyLabs' ingredient methodology, independent of brands.
What it helps with
softens skin
improves product texture
stabilizes emulsions
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Is cetyl alcohol a 'bad' alcohol that dries out skin?
No, cetyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol, which is very different from drying alcohols like ethanol or isopropyl alcohol. Fatty alcohols help to moisturize and condition the skin, rather than drying it out.
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