As avid beauty junkies, we can totally relate to the need to find the best alcohol-free products. Years of irritation and redness due to overapplying products that are loaded with alcohol have taken a toll on our skin. So, it is not a surprise that the beauty community perceive alcohol-free products as a godsend. However, you might want to rethink that fact.  Although the products are labelled alcohol free, there is a high chance that you might stumble upon the word alcohol when you read through the label. If you’re feeling hesitant, simply grab any products that are closest to you and you will certainly see cetearyl alcohol. 

Indeed, isn’t it quite confusing? It seems that cetearyl alcohol is an essential ingredient that most formulators opt for. We know that there are tons of questions lingering around your mind right now, and so do we. Fret not, Beauty Insider has gathered all the answers to your burning question about cetearyl alcohol. 

Brief Information

What is the main benefit?

It’s an emollient that functions as a stabilizer of the product. Plus, it also thickens the texture delivering a luxurious consistency that spreads easily.

Who should use it?

Despite its name, cetearyl alcohol is ideal for all skin types, however for those with an existing allergy you should consult with your physician. 

How to use it? 

Generally, it is compatible with all ingredients, so you can easily pair it with other beauty products. However, you might want to skip ceteareth-20 since the combination of both ingredients can be comedogenic. There’s also a concern that it might be too irritating for those with sensitive skin types. 

What exactly is Cetearyl Alcohol anyway?

Photo by Poko Skincare on Unsplash

Although its name may suggest otherwise, cetearyl alcohol is actually a hybrid between two components namely fatty acid and alcohol. It was originally discovered back in 1817 by Michel Chevreul, a French chemist when he was experimenting with heated sperm whale oil. He noticed that once the substance has cooled off, it leaves remnants of flakey residues. 

Since sperm whales are an endangered species, the current formulation is derived from botanical extracts like palm oil, soy oil and coconut oil. It is a wax-based substance that can be found in various beauty products from moisturisers, makeup, fragrance, lotions, shampoos,  to creams. Additionally, it can also appear in other names like cetostearyl alcohol, cetyl/stearyl alcohol, and C16-18 alcohol. 

What are the Benefits of Cetearyl Alcohol?

Contrary to popular belief, cetearyl alcohol actually delivers several benefits to the skin and the products. It has multipurpose benefits as an emollient, thickening agent, surfactant and emulsifier. Besides, cetearyl alcohol is actually regarded as safe by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel.

  • It helps to soften the skin for a smoother finish
  • Improve the texture of the product
  • Stabilize the formulation to prevent separation
  • Enhance spreadability 
  • Retains the moisture in the skin

Side Effects of Cetearyl Alcohol

The first thing that pops into our mind when we hear about this ingredient, is cetearyl alcohol bad for the skin? Well, it seems that there has been a mixture of reviews on the side effects that cetearyl alcohol imposed on skin health. Although this ingredient is not linked to any side effects that are commonly associated with alcohol, some dermatologists think otherwise. They claimed that cetearyl alcohol and other types of synthetic fatty alcohols can be irritating, especially for those with sensitive skin types. Therefore, for those with sensitive skin types or any skin disorders like eczema or psoriasis, it is recommended that you do a patch test before using the product. 

Products that are formulated with Cetearyl Alcohol

CeraVe Moisturizing Cream Dry to Very Dry Skin

CeraVe Moisturizing Cream Dry to Very Dry Skin is a certified cult favourite product that is known for its hydrating and nourishing properties. Created with MVE Technology, it delivers a controlled release for long-lasting results. With a blend of three types of ceramides and hyaluronic acid, it intensely hydrates the skin without leaving any greasy residue. 

Why we love it:

  • Ideal for sensitive skin
  • Fragrance-free
  • Protects the skin barrier

Price: $34.05

Where to buy: Care to Beauty

Fenty Skin Hydra’Reset Intensive Recovery Glycerin Hand Mask

Fenty Skin Hydra’Reset Intensive Recovery Glycerin Hand Mask delivers a luxuriously creamy texture that will surely protect your skin against dryness. It is packed with botanical extracts, fruit oils and glycerin for comprehensive benefits. The formulation ensures that your skin is super silky soft and healthy. 

Why we love it:

  • Intense hydration
  • Clean ingredients
  • Helps to soften the skin

Price:$32.00

Where to buy: Sephora 

Sephora Collection Hair Sleeping Masks

Sephora Collection Hair Sleeping Masks are available in four variants namely aloe vera, mango, coconut and grapefruit. Formulated with 91% of natural ingredients, it helps to nourish and hydrate every hair strand for smoother and manageable looking locks. Simply use it overnight and you will wake up to gorgeous hair. 

Why we love it: 

  • Natural ingredients
  • Instant results
  • Nourish the hair and scalp

Price:$7.00

Where to buy: Sephora

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