Quick answer
Ester of cetyl alcohol and 2-ethylhexanoic acid; Emollient that helps skin retain moisture; Enhances texture of formulas; Deemed as safe for use in cosmetics Key benefits: Hydration.
Cetyl Ethylhexanoate
Updated
Hexadecyl 2-ethylhexanoate
Purpose
Emollient that assists skin in retaining moisture. Also enhances a formula’s texture.
Rating
GOOD
Category
Emollient, Texture Enhancer
INCI Purpose
SKIN CONDITIONING - EMOLLIENT
Benefits
Alternative Names
Hair Profile
Functions
At a Glance
Ester of cetyl alcohol and 2-ethylhexanoic acid
Emollient that helps skin retain moisture
Enhances texture of formulas
Deemed as safe for use in cosmetics
Article
Cetyl ethylhexanoate is an emollient skin care ingredient that helps skin retain moisture. It’s an ester of cetyl alcohol and 2-ethylhexanoic acid, appearing as a colorless liquid as a raw material. Beyond this, it’s insoluble in water.
In addition to its skin conditioning properties, cetyl ethylhexanoate helps to thicken products and enhance texture, lending a velvety finish. It’s often used in lipsticks and rinse-off products. In cosmetics, it can be found in percentages of anywhere from 0.5 to 77.3%.
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel deemed it safe for use in cosmetics when properly formulated to not irritate skin.
This ingredient may be animal- or plant-derived or synthetic. Paula’s Choice uses the synthetic or plant-derived sources.
See: Cetearyl Ethylhexanoate, Ester, Cetyl Alcohol
References