Cetyl Alcohol NF

• Functions as an emulsion stabilizer, viscosity builder, and opacifier in oil-in-water and water-in-oil systems
• NF (National Formulary) grade — meets recognized purity and quality standards
• Imparts a smooth, non-greasy skin feel and improves spreadability of finished formulations
• Compatible with a wide range of emulsifiers, preservatives, and cosmetic ingredients

Intended Use

Intended for incorporation into creams, lotions, conditioners, balms, and other emulsion-based personal care products as a stabilizing and texturizing ingredient.

Customization Notes

• Adjust usage rate to control viscosity and body in custom formulations — typically used at 1–5% depending on application
• Pairs well with stearyl alcohol, emulsifying waxes, and polysorbates for tailored emulsion systems
• A versatile building block for brand owners developing private label skincare, haircare, or body care lines from scratch

Formulation Reference

• Solubility: Soluble in: oils, ethanol (slightly), diethyl ether, acetone, benzene. Dispersible in: hot water (limited).  
• Processing Temperature: Add at: 129°F / 54°C (heated oil phase). Heat tolerance: up to melting point. 
• Melting Point / Form: 120.7°F / 49.3°C 
• Recommended Phase: Oil phase (heated) 
• Recommended pH: N/A - Anhydrous

Option 1: Basic Emulsion Thickener

1. Weigh out the desired percentage of cetyl alcohol NF (typically 1–5% depending on your target viscosity) and add to the oil phase of your formulation.
2. Heat the oil phase to melt the cetyl alcohol completely, then combine with your heated water phase while mixing thoroughly.
3. Continue mixing as the emulsion cools — the cetyl alcohol helps build body, stability, and a smooth, non-greasy skin feel in the finished product.

Option 2: Advanced Emulsion Stabilizer Method

1. Combine cetyl alcohol NF with your chosen emulsifier (such as an emulsifying wax or polysorbate) in the oil phase to create a co-emulsifying system tailored to your formula.
2. Heat both oil and water phases to the same temperature, then slowly add the water phase to the oil phase while mixing at moderate speed.
3. As the emulsion forms, the cetyl alcohol provides structure, improved spreadability, and a luxurious slip on the skin.
4. Cool with gentle stirring to room temperature, then add heat-sensitive ingredients. The result is a stable, smooth cream or lotion with professional-quality texture.

Option 3: Conditioner & Hair Care Texturizer

1. Melt cetyl alcohol NF into the oil phase of your hair conditioner or hair mask formulation alongside other conditioning oils and emollients.
2. Combine with your heated water phase and mix until a uniform, creamy emulsion forms.
3. Cool to room temperature with gentle stirring. The cetyl alcohol contributes a smooth, detangling feel and helps the conditioner distribute evenly through the hair — a foundational building block for salon-quality haircare products.

INCI: Cetyl Alcohol

Warning Statements:

For external use in cosmetic and personal care formulations only. Not for ingestion. Avoid direct contact with eyes. Handle using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, safety glasses, and lab coat. Store sealed in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and sources of heat. Keep container tightly closed when not in use. Follow all applicable GMP guidelines when formulating and conducting stability and microbial testing.

Technical Specs:

• Appearance: White flakes or pellets with faint or no odor
• Suggested Usage Rate: 0.5-6%
• Functions: Emollient, Emulsifying, Opacifying, Surfactant, Viscosity Controlling
• CAS Number: 36653-82-4
• Preserved With: Not applicable