Ingredient glossary

Cetyl Alcohol

INCI: Cetyl Alcohol

Solid and proven

A genuinely useful ingredient with real evidence behind it, not hype.

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What it does

  • softening
  • texture

strong evidenceLong history of safe use as a conditioning fatty alcohol that improves texture and cushion in creams.

On a label: usually effective at 1-5%.

Who it's for, and who should skip it

Tends to suit

  • dry
  • normal

Approach with care

  • rare allergy
  • Clogs poresLow
  • Irritation riskLow

Plays well with

  • fatty acids
  • emulsifiers

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Educational information about a cosmetic ingredient, not medical advice.