Cetearyl ethylhexanoate as Used in Cosmetics
What is it?
Cetearyl ethylhexanoate is the ester of cetearyl alcohol and 2-ethylhexanoic acid and was formerly called cetearyl octanoate. It is a transparent, oil-like, water-resistant liquid that protects skin from moisture loss by acting as an emollient.Cetearyl Ethylhexanoate is an emollient ester used in skincare products to improve texture and provide a smooth, non-greasy feel. It is a combination of cetearyl alcohol, a fatty alcohol, and ethylhexanoic acid, a fatty acid. This ingredient is primarily used to enhance the sensory attributes of skincare formulations, making them easier to apply and more pleasant to use.
Where does it come from?
Cetearyl Ethylhexanoate is created by combining naturally derived fatty alcohols with fatty acids, typically derived from plant oils such as coconut oil.
Commercially, cetearyl ethylhexanoate is produced through the catalytic esterification of cetearyl alcohol and 2-ethylhexanoic acid, with the removal step being an azeotropic distillation. Cetyl octanoate and stearyl octanoate can also be combined in a 7:2 weight ratio to create the product.
What is CETEARYL ETHYLHEXANOATE used for?
Cetearyl ethylhexanoate works as an emoliient, texture enhancer and a conditioning agent in cosmetics and personal care products.
Skin care: It smooths and softens the skin. It adds a sophisticated spreadability to creams and lotions and is oxygen-stable in addition to its moisturizing qualities. In leave-on products, cetearyl ethylhexanoate can be used up to 35% of the time. Additionally, it serves as a replacement for whale-derived spermaceti wax. Numerous cosmetic products, including foundation, facial moisturizers, lipsticks, lip glosses, lip/eye liners, conditioners, and anti-aging products, contain cetearyl ethylhexanoate.
Why Is It Used?
Cetearyl Ethylhexanoate acts as a lubricant on the skin’s surface to give it a soft and smooth appearance and as a hair conditioning ingredient. It also imparts water-repelling characteristics to cosmetics and personal care products, improves “spreadability,” and is used to improve dry skin conditions.