Cetyl Alcohol is obtained from coconuts and is used as a co-emulsifier and stabilizer for creams. It ensures that when you combine fat and water in DIY skincare products, they mix well and you get a fine texture. In addition, Cetyl Alcohol works hydratingly and does not irritate the skin.

Cetyl Alcohol looks like small tablets of white powder, but these tablets melt at a temperature of 49°C (120°F). The name Cetyl Alcohol comes from the Latin word cetus, which means 'whale oil'. Cetyl Alcohol was formerly obtained from whales, nowadays it is made from coconuts.

Benefits

Hydrates the skin

When thinking of alcohol, you quickly think of a drying liquid that irritates the skin. But unlike most forms of alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol actually works hydratingly and soothingly. It replenishes the skin's natural fat layer and helps prevent your skin from drying out.

For a fine texture

As an ingredient in DIY skincare products, Cetyl Alcohol has stabilizing, softening, thickening and mattifying properties. If you want to use both water-based and oil-based ingredients in your product, Cetyl Alcohol ensures that they mix well with each other. In addition, Cetyl Alcohol contributes to a fine, smooth texture of your product that feels very nice to apply to your skin. This way you create a product that spreads nicely and lightly and deeply nourishes the skin.

How do you use it?

Cetyl Alcohol is intended to be used as an ingredient in DIY skincare products. Cetyl Alcohol must be dissolved in heated oil of about 60 degrees Celsius, you cannot add it to a cold mixture. The more Cetyl Alcohol you use, the thicker the texture of your finished product. So follow the recipe you're making carefully and experiment with smaller and larger amounts of Cetyl Alcohol until you have achieved the desired texture. The recommended percentage of Cetyl Alcohol to use in your product is about 1-2%.

What makes it so special?

Unlike other oil-based ingredients like Beeswax, Cetyl Alcohol provides a light, spreadable texture. Ingredients like Beeswax and Shea Butter can create a beautifully nourishing product, but the texture is often heavier. If you want to make a lightly spreadable cream, then Cetyl Alcohol is an indispensable ingredient.