Cetyl Alcohol

Cetyl alcohol, also known as palmityl alcohol. At room temperature, cetyl alcohol takes the form of a waxy white solid or flakes. Modern production is based around the reduction of Palmitic acid, which is obtained from palm oil.

Cetyl alcohol is used in the cosmetic industry as an opacifier in shampoos, or as an emollient, emulsifier or thickening agent in the manufacture of skin creams and lotions. It is also employed as a lubricant for nuts and bolts, and is the active ingredient in some “liquid pool covers” (forming a surface layer to reduce evaporation and retain heat.).