A cosmetic cream containing cetyl alcohol.
Cetyl alcohol is a lubricating and thickening agent used in a variety of products. Also known as palmityl alcohol, it is a synthetic fatty substance based on oils that reduces the surface tension of a liquid. It is most commonly found in shampoos and conditioners as it can soften and smooth hair. It is also used to thicken lotions and other cosmetics, as well as to lubricate industrial machine parts such as screws and fasteners.
components
Cetyl alcohol is found in many hand and body lotions.
This substance contains 16 carbons, which makes it more oily than many other types of alcohol. This helps moisturize products, which is good when the goal is to soften and smooth skin or hair, but can also make hair or skin feel dirty and greasy if overused. The composition of cetyl alcohol also makes it an effective thickening agent. It has the ability to increase the viscosity of a substance, a process called emulsification, making it appear thicker and hold better. Emulsifiers can be used to increase the stability of a substance by keeping components that cannot be mixed in it uniformly dispersed rather than separated like oil and water.
hair care
Shampoos and conditioners often use cetyl alcohol to help moisturize hair.
Shampoos and conditioners often use cetyl alcohol to help moisturize hair. Protects the hair cuticles and helps them stay flat to prevent dryness and frizz. While conditioners with fatty alcohols can be effective moisturizing agents, it is perhaps even more important that people choose a shampoo that contains them. Many shampoos draw moisture from the hair and can become very dry if the moisture is not replenished after cleansing. At the same time, people with oily hair may not benefit as much from shampoos containing this substance because their hair is already straight.
lotion and makeup
Cetyl alcohol is sometimes an ingredient in blushes and other makeup products.
In cosmetics, cetyl alcohol is used as an emollient that softens the skin when used in adequate amounts. Moisturizers that contain it are often used for normal skin types. They can maintain the skin’s moisture balance and not create oiliness if used correctly. In addition to moisturizers, cetyl alcohol is present in foundations, blushes, and other cosmetics. The thickening agents it contains help prevent makeup from falling off the skin.
Industrial uses
Moisturizers containing cetyl alcohol are often marketed for people who have a “normal” skin type.
While cetyl alcohol is most commonly used in cosmetics, it is also found in water-based lubricants for screws, nuts, bolts, and studs. It can be used to keep threaded and non-threaded fasteners moving properly, making them easier to use. This is particularly the case with tools that don’t fit the way they should. For best effects with a cetyl alcohol-based lubricant, instruments should be completely submerged in the liquid, then removed and dried before use.