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CETYL ALCOHOL

Cetyl alcohol /ˈsiːtəl/, also known as hexadecan-1-ol and palmityl alcohol, is a C-16 fatty alcohol with the formula CH3(CH2)15OH. At room temperature, cetyl alcohol takes the form of a waxy white solid or flakes. The name cetyl derives from the whale oil (cetacea oil, from Latin: cetus, lit. 'whale', from Ancient Greek: κῆτος, romanized: kētos, lit. 'huge fish')[3] from which it was first isolated. Cetyl Alcohol is a synthetic, solid, fatty alcohol and nonionic surfactant. Cetyl alcohol is used as an emulsifying agent in pharmaceutical preparations.

CETYL ALCOHOL

CAS No. : 36653-82-4
EC No. : 253-149-0

Synonyms:
Hexadecan-1-ol; Palmitate; Palmitic acid; Palmityl alcohol; setil alkol; Cetearyl Alcohol; Cetyl alcohol for synthesis. CAS 36653-82-4, chemical formula CH₃(CH₂)₁₅OH.; 1-Hexadecanol; cetyl alcohol; Hexadecan-1-ol; 36653-82-4; HEXADECANOL; Cetanol; Palmityl alcohol; Hexadecyl alcohol; n-Cetyl alcohol; Cetaffine; Cetylol; Cetal; Ethal; Ethol; Cetylic alcohol; N-Hexadecanol; n-Hexadecyl alcohol; n-1-Hexadecanol; Loxanwachs SK; Crodacol C; Loxanol K extra; 1-Hexadecyl alcohol; Elfacos C; Loxanol K; Crodacol-CAS; Crodacol-CAT; Siponol wax-A; Atalco C; Cetalol CA; Siponol CC; Lanol C; 1-Cetanol; Hyfatol 16; Cachalot C-50; Cachalot C-51; Cachalot C-52; Alcohol C-16; Product 308; Aldol 54; Dytol F-11; Adol; Cyclal cetyl alcohol; Alfol 16; Lorol 24; Adol 52; Adol 54; Adol 52 NF; Hyfatol; Epal 16NF; 1-Hexadecyl alc; 16-Hexadecanol; C16 alcohol; Adol 520; n-Hexadecan-1-ol; Cetylalkohol; Isocetyl alcohol; 1-Hexanedecanol; Isohexadecyl alcohol; Hexadecanol (VAN); Fatty alcohol(C16); cetylalcohol; Caswell No. 165D; SSD RP; Normal primary hexadecyl alcohol; Alcohols, C14-18; Cetyl Alcohol; CO-1670; CO-1695; FEMA Number 2554; Hexadecyl alcohol, normal; Lipocol C; UNII-936JST6JCN; Fancol CA; Cetyl alcohol NF; Crodacol C70; Rita CA; 1-Hydroxyhexadecane; Cetanol (TN); Lanette 16; FEMA No. 2554; Philcohol 1600; Cetyl alcohol (NF); Cetyl alcohol [NF]; Lorol C16; LorolL 24; Cachalot C-50 NF; Adol 52NF; HSDB 2643; NSC 4194; EINECS 253-149-0; EPA Pesticide Chemical Code 001508; Cetyl alcohol (hexadecanol); 1-Hexadecanol, 96%; palmitic alcohol; CAS-36653-82-4; hexadecylalcohol; Hexadecanol NF; Ceraphyl ICA; Crodacol C95NF; Dehydag wax 16; Eutanol G16; Crodacol C95 NF; Laurex 16; Alfol 16RD; hexadecan-1-ol group; SSD (Salt/Mix); Cetanol (JP17); Epal 16; Hyfatol 16-95; Kalcol 6098; Loxiol VPG 1743; 1-Hexadecanol, 95%; ACMC-1AJXA; SSD RP (Salt/Mix); bmse000487; CHEMBL706; Michel XO-150-16; EC 253-149-0; 1-Hexadecanol, >=99%; SCHEMBL3381; 124-29-8; 4-01-00-01876 (Beilstein Handbook Reference); 1-Hexadecanol 36653-82-4; Cetyl alcohol, analytical standard; Cetyl alcohol, puriss., 95.0%; NSC-4194; ZINC8214519; EINECS 252-964-9; Tox21_111609; Tox21_300325; ANW-28459; s4173; Tox21_111609_1; 1-Hexadecanol, ReagentPlus(R), 99%; Cetyl alcohol, puriss., >=99.0% (GC); Cetyl alcohol, SAJ special grade, >=98.0%; Cetyl alcohol, Selectophore(TM), >=99.0%; EN300-19351; 1-Hexadecanol, Vetec(TM) reagent grade, 94%; Cetyl alcohol, European Pharmacopoeia (EP) Reference Standard; Cetyl alcohol, United States Pharmacopeia (USP) Reference Standard; Cetyl Alcohol, Pharmaceutical Secondary Standard; Certified Reference Material; Cetyl/stearyl alcohol; 8005-44-5; Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol [nf]; lanette o; eınecs 267-008-6; ceto/stearyl alcohol; ec 267-008-6; schembl1091511; cetyl-stearyl alcohol (50/50); ls-193702; cetyl alcohol: stearyl alcohol: Setil Stearil Alkol ; Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol; cetylstearyl alcohol; cetyl/stearyl alcohol; cetostearyl alcohol; cetearyl alcohol; (c16-c18) alkyl alcohol; alcohols, setil siterat alkol; cetil stearat alkol; setil stearat alkol; setil sitearat alkol; setil stearate alkol; cetilstearatalkol; setearil alkol; sitearil alkol; setil sitearil alkol; cetilstearly alcol; cetearly stearly alcohol; cetearly stearly alcohol.; seto steril alkol; setosteril alkol; setostearilalkol; Setil Stearil Alkol ; seto stearil alkol; setosteril alkol; seto steril alkol; seto sterilalkol; setosterilalkol; setosteril alkol; setosteril alkol; c1618; c16-18 alcohols; Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol; cetyl/stearyl alcohol; 1-octadecanol, mixed with 1-hexadecanol; lanette aok; cetyl alcohol - stearyl alcohol; Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol ; c16-18; cobalt(ıı) acetylacetonate; ferric acetylacetonate; ethyl isocyanoacetate; n-butylısocyanıde; cobalt ethylene dıamıne chlorıde; europıum(ııı) dıchloro(ethylenedıamıne); platınum(ıı); tert-butyl ısocyanıde; salcomıne; tosylmethyl isocyanide; 2,4-pentanedıone, sılver derıvatıve; trıs(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-3,5-heptanedıonato); dysprosıum(ııı); Hexadecan-1-ol; Palmitate; Palmitic acid; cetyl alcohol; cetyl alcohol-stearyl alcohol; cetylstearyl alcohol; lanette aok; c16-18; c16-c18 n-hexadecyl-stearyl alcohol (mixed); cetostearylalcohol,nf; dehyquartdc16-18; dehyquartd; cetyl alcohol - stearyl alcohol; cetyl alcohol - stearyl alcohol; Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol ; c16-18; cetearyl palmıtate(cas 85341-79-3) phenethyl alcohol(cas 60-12-8) ethyl alcohol(cas 64-17-5) methyl alcohol(cas 67-56-1; 170082-17-4) neopentyl alcohol(cas ; 75-84-3) tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol(cas 97-99-4) furfuryl alcohol(cas 98-00-0) benzyl alcohol(cas 100-51-6) cinnamyl alcohol(cas 104-54-1) allyl alcohol(cas107-18-6); cetylstearylalcohol


Cetyl Alcohol

Cetyl alcohol /ˈsiːtəl/, also known as hexadecan-1-ol and palmityl alcohol, is a C-16 fatty alcohol with the formula CH3(CH2)15OH. At room temperature, cetyl alcohol takes the form of a waxy white solid or flakes. The name cetyl derives from the whale oil (cetacea oil, from Latin: cetus, lit. 'whale', from Ancient Greek: κῆτος, romanized: kētos, lit. 'huge fish')[3] from which it was first isolated. Cetyl Alcohol is a synthetic, solid, fatty alcohol and nonionic surfactant. Cetyl alcohol is used as an emulsifying agent in pharmaceutical preparations.

Preparation
Cetyl alcohol was discovered in 1817 by the French chemist Michel Chevreul when he heated spermaceti, a waxy substance obtained from sperm whale oil, with caustic potash (potassium hydroxide). Flakes of cetyl alcohol were left behind on cooling.[5] Modern production is based around the reduction of palmitic acid, which is obtained from palm oil.

Uses
Cetyl alcohol is used in the cosmetic industry as an opacifier in shampoos, or as an emollient, emulsifier or thickening agent in the manufacture of skin creams and lotions.[6] It is also employed as a lubricant for nuts and bolts, and is the active ingredient in some "liquid pool covers" (forming a non-volatile surface layer to reduce water evaporation, related latent vaporization heat loss, and thus to retain heat in the pool). Moreover, it can also be used as a non-ionic co-surfactant in emulsion applications.[7]

Side effects
People who suffer from eczema can be sensitive to cetyl alcohol,[8][9] though this may be due to impurities rather than cetyl alcohol itself.[10] However, cetyl alcohol is sometimes included in medications used for the treatment of eczema.
Cetyl alcohol, also known as 1-hexadecanol and palmityl alcohol, is a common ingredient in a variety of personal care products and cosmetics. It is derived from vegetable oils such as palm or coconut oil.

Uses & Benefits
In personal care products like skin lotions and creams, cetyl alcohol serves as a thickening agent and emulsifier, to help keep product ingredients from separating. Because cetyl alcohol melts at temperatures higher than the average human body temperature, it is useful in cosmetic products like lipsticks, helping lip color adhere to the skin.
Cetyl alcohol is also a multipurpose food additive, used as a flavoring agent or in food decorations. For example, cetyl alcohol is an ingredient in colorful lettering or pictures on some types of candy or gum.
In industrial applications, cetyl alcohol is a primary ingredient in fuels, chemical intermediates and plasticizers and is used as a lubricant for nuts and bolts in manufacturing applications.

Safety Information
For nearly 30 years, a Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) expert scientific panel has stated that cetyl alcohol is safe for use as cosmetic ingredients. In 2005, CIR considered available new data and reaffirmed its original safety conclusion.
A small percentage of people may experience contact allergies (red or inflamed skin) from exposure to emulsifier ingredients like cetyl alcohol in lotions or creams.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has deemed cetyl alcohol can be used safely as both a direct and indirect food additive.

USAGE areas of cetyl alcohol
What is it used for?
Cetyl alcohol helps prevent creams from separating into oil and liquid. A chemical that helps to keep liquid and oil together is known as an emulsifier. It may also make a product thicker or increase the product’s ability to foam.
Products with cetyl alcohol
skin lotions
moisturizers
skin creams
sunscreen
shampoo
conditioners
hair removal creams
hair mousse
anti-frizz hair cream
hair dye
mascara

USES of cetyl alcohol
Cetyl alcohol is used as a moisturizer to treat or prevent dry, rough, scaly, itchy skin and minor skin irritations (e.g., diaper rash, skin burns from radiation therapy). Emollients are substances that soften and moisturize the skin and decrease itching and flaking. Some products (e.g., zinc oxide, white petrolatum) are used mostly to protect the skin against irritation (e.g., from wetness).
Dry skin is caused by a loss of water in the upper layer of the skin. Emollients/moisturizers work by forming an oily layer on the top of the skin that traps water in the skin. Petrolatum, lanolin, mineral oil and dimethicone are common emollients. Humectants, including glycerin, lecithin, and propylene glycol, draw water into the outer layer of skin. Many products also have ingredients that soften the horny substance (keratin) that holds the top layer of skin cells together (including urea, alpha hydroxy acids such as lactic/citric/glycolic acid, and allantoin). This helps the dead skin cells fall off, helps the skin keep in more water, and leaves the skin feeling smoother and softer.

How to use Cetyl Alcohol Lotion
Use Cetyl alcohol as directed. Some products require priming before use. Follow all directions on the product package. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Some Cetyl alcohol need to be shaken before use. Check the label to see if you should shake the bottle well before using. Apply to the affected areas of the skin as needed or as directed on the label or by your doctor. How often you apply the medication will depend on the product and your skin condition. To treat dry hands, you may need to use the product every time you wash your hands, applying it throughout the day.
If you are using this product to help treat diaper rash, clean the diaper area well before use and allow the area to dry before applying the product.
If you are using this product to help treat radiation skin burns, check with radiation personnel to see if your brand can be applied before radiation therapy.
Follow all the directions on the label for proper use. Apply to the skin only. Avoid sensitive areas such as your eyes, inside your mouth/nose, and the vaginal/groin area, unless the label or your doctor directs you otherwise. Check the label for directions about any areas or types of skin where you should not apply the product (e.g., on the face, any areas of broken/chapped/cut/irritated/scraped skin, or on a recently shaved area of the skin). Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

Use Cetyl alcohol regularly to get the most benefit from it. Most moisturizers need water to work well. Apply the product after bathing/showering while the skin is still damp. For very dry skin, your doctor may instruct you to soak the area before using the product. Long, hot, or frequent bathing/washing can worsen dry skin.
If your condition persists or worsens, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, seek immediate medical attention.

Uses & Benefits
In personal care products like skin lotions and creams, cetyl alcohol serves as a thickening agent and emulsifier, to help keep product ingredients from separating. Because cetyl alcohol melts at temperatures higher than the average human body temperature, it is useful in cosmetic products like lipsticks, helping lip color adhere to the skin.
Cetyl alcohol is also a multipurpose food additive, used as a flavoring agent or in food decorations. For example, cetyl alcohol is an ingredient in colorful lettering or pictures on some types of candy or gum.
In industrial applications, cetyl alcohol is a primary ingredient in fuels, chemical intermediates and plasticizers and is used as a lubricant for nuts and bolts in manufacturing applications.

Why is cetyl alcohol in cosmetics?
Cetyl alcohol acts as a binding agent, helping the various ingredients in many moisturizers, lotions and creams bind together, which helps enable smooth application.

Is cetyl alcohol “alcohol free”?
Products labeled “alcohol free” may still contain cetyl alcohol, or other fatty alcohols such as stearyl, cetearyl or lanolin alcohol. The term “alcohol,” used by itself, generally refers to ethanol (also known as ethyl alcohol or grain alcohol).

What is the difference between cetearyl alcohol and cetyl alcohol?
Cetyl alcohol is an ingredient in cetearyl alcohol, which is a mixture of cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol.

What Is It?
Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol, Myristyl Alcohol and Behenyl Alcohol are white, waxy solids. Isostearyl Alcohol is a clear liquid. Cetyl Alcohol and Stearyl Alcohol are the two major components of Cetearyl Alcohol. These ingredients are all fatty alcohols and that are widely used in cosmetics and personal care products, especially in skin lotions and creams.
Cetyl Alcohol is a synthetic, solid, fatty alcohol and nonionic surfactant. Cetyl alcohol is used as an emulsifying agent in pharmaceutical preparations.
Cetyl alcohol and stearamides make dry powder dispersions of aluminum chlorhydroxide for deodorant-antiperspirant sticks

Following ingestion at a dose level of 2.0 g/kg in rats, cetyl alcohol was partly absorbed [L1810]. Administration of 0.2 mg cetyl alcohol in rat by stomach tube indicated good absorption as 63-96 % of radiolabeled cetyl alcohol was detected in the lymph [A32209]. About 15% of total cetyl alcohol was unchanged during its passage through the mucosal cells of the small intestine but mostly underwent oxidation to palmitic acid [A32209]. The extent of absorption was reported to be 26% in poultry [A32209].

Following ingestion at a dose level of 2.0 g/kg in rats, cetyl alcohol was partly metabolized to palmitic acid [L1810]. After administration of 0.2 mg cetyl alcohol in rat by stomach tube, cetyl alcohol was mostly oxidized to palmitic acid and incorporated into triglycerides and phospholipids during its passage through the mucosal cells of the small intestine [A32209].
Cetyl alcohol has hydrating properties that makes it a suitable emulsifier and stabilizer in pharmaceutical formulations. It is also present in washable ointment base due to its dispersant abilities and stabilizing properties [A32209]. Potential antimicrobial activity of cetyl alcohol may be due to a change in cell membrane permeability that either blocks absorption of essential nutrients and induction of outward diffusion vital cellular components [A32209]. This proposed mechanism of action is thought to be similar for other long-chain aliphatic alcohols with same antimicrobial activity, such as myristyl alcohol and behenyl alcohol [A32209].

In a 5-day incubation study using an activated sludge seed from a municipal sewage treatment plant, 28.0% of initial Cetyl alcohol was mineralized (CO2 measurement)(1). A theoretical BOD of 0% was observed using the AFNOR (the French norm procedure) screening test and a 5-day incubation period(2). In standard 5-day BOD tests using emulsified Cetyl alcohol, 30-60% of initial Cetyl alcohol was oxidized(3). In studies designed to examine the biodegradability of Cetyl alcohol in thin films (monolayer) on water surfaces, it was found that biological destruction of the monolayer resulted in measurable consumption of the material with all substrates that were tested; substrates included 2% settled domestic sewage in BOD dilution water, 50% Ohio River water + 50% BOD dilution water, water from a stock pond near San Antonio, TX, and other combinations of BOD dilution water and mineral supplements; oxidation rates varied with substrates; oxidation rates varied from 6.2 to 14.3% over incubation periods of 20 to 48 days(3). In Warburg respirometer tests using activated sludge and 500 mg/L of Cetyl alcohol (well above its aqueous solubility), the theoretical oxygen demand was only 0.4% after a 12-hr incubation period(4). In static culture tests examining the disappearance of Cetyl alcohol in seeded media as compared to unseeded control media over a 10-day incubation period, almost none disappeared from the control media while nearly 20% disappeared from the seeded media; in shake flask tests using seeded media and a fine granular form of Cetyl alcohol, the initial Cetyl alcohol concn of 100 mg/L decreased to only 0.25 mg/L after 30 days of incubation; the overall results of the study concluded that given sufficient time in contact with adapted microbial species under conditions otherwise non-limiting, the complete disappearance of Cetyl alcohol as an identifiable molecular species will occur; one limiting condition is the relative insolubility of Cetyl alcohol in water; it was found that microbial growth occurs more rapidly when the Cetyl alcohol substrate is added in dissolved form (eg hexane solution)(5).

Residues of cetyl alcohol are exempted from the requirement of a tolerance when used as an evaporation retardant (limit: not more than 5.0% of pesticide formulation) in accordance with good agricultural practice as inert (or occasionally active) ingredients in pesticide formulations applied to growing crops or to raw agricultural commodities after harvest.
Residues of cetyl alcohol are exempted from the requirement of a tolerance when used as an evaporation retardant (limit: not more than 5.0% of pesticide formulation) in accordance with good agricultural practice as inert (or occasionally active) ingredients in pesticide formulations applied to growing crops or to raw agricultural commodities after harvest.

Cetyl alcohol is a food additive permitted for direct addition to food for human consumption as a synthetic flavoring substance and adjuvant in accordance with the following conditions: a) they are used in the minimum quantity required to produce their intended effect, and otherwise in accordance with all the principles of good manufacturing practice, and 2) they consist of one or more of the following, used alone or in combination with flavoring substances and adjuvants generally recognized as safe in food, prior-sanctioned for such use, or regulated by an appropriate section in this part.
Cetyl Alcohol is an indirect food additive for use as a component of adhesives.
Drug products containing certain active ingredients offered over-the-counter (OTC) for certain uses. A number of active ingredients have been present in OTC drug products for various uses, as described below. However, based on evidence currently available, there are inadequate data to establish general recognition of the safety and effectiveness of these ingredients for the specified uses: cetyl alcohol is included in skin protectant drug products; insect bite and sting drug products; and poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac drug products.

Cetyl alcohol's production and use in perfumery, foam stabilizer in detergents, cosmetics, chemical intermediate, detergents, and pharmaceuticals may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. Its use to retard evaporation of water from reservoirs and growing plants will result in its direct release to the environment. If released to air, a vapor pressure of 6X10-6 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates Cetyl alcohol will exist in both the vapor and particulate phases in the atmosphere. Vapor-phase Cetyl alcohol will be degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals; the half-life for this reaction in air is estimated to be 16 hours. Particulate-phase Cetyl alcohol will be removed from the atmosphere by wet or dry deposition. If released to soil, Cetyl alcohol is expected to have no mobility based upon an estimated Koc of 25,000. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 4.6X10-2 atm-cu m/mole. However, adsorption to soil is expected to attenuate volatilization. Various biological screening studies have demonstrated that Cetyl alcohol biodegrades both aerobically and anaerobically. If released into water, Cetyl alcohol is expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment based upon the estimated Koc. Volatilization from water surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon this compound's estimated Henry's Law constant. Estimated volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 23 hours and 12 days, respectively. However, volatilization from water surfaces is expected to be attenuated by adsorption to suspended solids and sediment in the water column. The estimated volatilization half-life from a model pond is 1.8 years if adsorption is considered. An observed BCF of 56 suggests bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is moderate. Hydrolysis is not expected to be an important environmental fate process since this compound lacks functional groups that hydrolyze under environmental conditions. Occupational exposure to Cetyl alcohol may occur through dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where Cetyl alcohol is produced or used. Monitoring data indicate that the general population may be exposed to Cetyl alcohol via inhalation of ambient air and dermal contact with this compound and other consumer products containing Cetyl alcohol. 

Cetyl alcohol's production and use in perfumery, foam stabilizer in detergents, cosmetics, chemical intermediate, detergents, and pharmaceuticals(1) may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC). Its use to retard evaporation of water from reservoirs and growing plants(1) will result in its direct release to the environment(SRC).
TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 25,000(SRC), determined from a water solubility of 4.1X10-2(2) and a regression-derived equation(3), indicates that Cetyl alcohol is expected to be immobile in soil(SRC). Volatilization of Cetyl alcohol from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process(SRC) given an estimated Henry's Law constant of 4.6X10-5 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), derived from its vapor pressure, 6X10-6 mm Hg(4), and water solubility(2). However, adsorption to soil is expected to attenuate volatilization(SRC). Cetyl alcohol is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon its vapor pressure(4). A CO2 mineralization of 28.0% in a 5-day incubation study using an activated sludge seed from a municipal sewage treatment plant(5), indicates that biodegradation may be an important environmental fate process in soil(SRC).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), Cetyl alcohol, which has a vapor pressure of 6X10-6 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), will exist in both the vapor and particulate phases in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase Cetyl alcohol is degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals(SRC); the half-life for this reaction in air is estimated to be 16 hours(SRC), calculated from its rate constant of 2.4X10-11 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(SRC) that was derived using a structure estimation method(3). Particulate-phase Cetyl alcohol may be removed from the air by wet or dry deposition(SRC).

AEROBIC: In a 5-day incubation study using an activated sludge seed from a municipal sewage treatment plant, 28.0% of initial Cetyl alcohol was mineralized (CO2 measurement)(1). A theoretical BOD of 0% was observed using the AFNOR (the French norm procedure) screening test and a 5-day incubation period(2). In standard 5-day BOD tests using emulsified Cetyl alcohol, 30-60% of initial Cetyl alcohol was oxidized(3). In studies designed to examine the biodegradability of Cetyl alcohol in thin films (monolayer) on water surfaces, it was found that biological destruction of the monolayer resulted in measurable consumption of the material with all substrates that were tested; substrates included 2% settled domestic sewage in BOD dilution water, 50% Ohio River water + 50% BOD dilution water, water from a stock pond near San Antonio, TX, and other combinations of BOD dilution water and mineral supplements; oxidation rates varied with substrates; oxidation rates varied from 6.2 to 14.3% over incubation periods of 20 to 48 days(3). In Warburg respirometer tests using activated sludge and 500 mg/L of Cetyl alcohol (well above its aqueous solubility), the theoretical oxygen demand was only 0.4% after a 12-hr incubation period(4). In static culture tests examining the disappearance of Cetyl alcohol in seeded media as compared to unseeded control media over a 10-day incubation period, almost none disappeared from the control media while nearly 20% disappeared from the seeded media; in shake flask tests using seeded media and a fine granular form of Cetyl alcohol, the initial Cetyl alcohol concn of 100 mg/L decreased to only 0.25 mg/L after 30 days of incubation; the overall results of the study concluded that given sufficient time in contact with adapted microbial species under conditions otherwise non-limiting, the complete disappearance of Cetyl alcohol as an identifiable molecular species will occur; one limiting condition is the relative insolubility of Cetyl alcohol in water; it was found that microbial growth occurs more rapidly when the Cetyl alcohol substrate is added in dissolved form (eg hexane solution)(5).

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of Cetyl alcohol with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals has been estimated as 2.4X10-11 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(SRC) using a structure estimation method(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 16 hours at an atmospheric concentration of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(1). Cetyl alcohol is not expected to undergo hydrolysis in the environment due to the lack of functional groups that hydrolyze under environmental conditions(2).

The Koc of Cetyl alcohol is estimated as 25,000(SRC), using a water solubility of 4.122X10-2(1) and a regression-derived equation(2). According to a classification scheme(3), this estimated Koc value suggests that Cetyl alcohol is expected to be immobile in soil.
The Henry's Law constant for Cetyl alcohol is estimated as 4.6X10-5 atm-cu m/mole(SRC) derived from its vapor pressure, 6.0X10-6 mm Hg(1), and water solubility, 4.1X10-2 mg/L(2). This Henry's Law constant indicates that Cetyl alcohol is expected to volatilize from water surfaces(3). Based on this Henry's Law constant, the volatilization half-life from a model river (1 m deep, flowing 1 m/sec, wind velocity of 3 m/sec)(3) is estimated as 23 hours(SRC). The volatilization half-life from a model lake (1 m deep, flowing 0.05 m/sec, wind velocity of 0.5 m/sec)(3) is estimated as 12 days(SRC). However, volatilization from water surfaces is expected to be attenuated by adsorption to suspended solids and sediment in the water column. The estimated volatilization half-life from a model pond is 1.8 years if adsorption is considered (4). Cetyl alcohol's estimated Henry's Law constant indicates that volatilization from moist soil surfaces may occur(SRC). Cetyl alcohol is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon its vapor pressure(1).

Snow surface analysis were done for Cetyl alcohol at seven sites in the Antarctic in 1993/1994 season; Wood Bay at sea level (16 ng/L), Mt Melbourne at 200 meters above sea level (3 ng/L), Vegetation Island at 220 meters above sea level (26 ng/L), Mt Melbourne at 600 meters above sea level (3 ng/L), McCarthy Ridge at 790 meters above sea level (4 ng/L), Mt Melbourne at 1130 meters above sea level (7 ng/L) and Hercules Neve at 2960 meters above sea level (25 ng/L)(1). Cetyl alcohol was detected in subsurface samples in McCarthy Ridge at concns of 14 ng/L at 1 meter deep, 17 ng/L at 2 meters deep and below detection limit at 3 meters deep(1). Subsurface samples taken at Hercules Neve gave Cetyl alcohol results of 7 ng/L at 1 meter deep, 9 ng/L at 2 meters deep and 3 ng/L at 3 meters deep(1). Cetyl alcohol was identified at 5 of 10 snow sample sites in Russia and Finland; 0.09 ug/kg at Nellim (Lapland, Finland), 0.10 ug/kg at Muonio (Lapland, Finland), 0.36 ug/kg at Levi (Lapland, Finland), 1.72 ug/kg at Butovo (south end of Moscow) and 0.25 ug/kg at Moscow State University (Moscow, Russia)(2). Cetyl alcohol was identified in two of eight snow samples taken from Mt Sonnblick in the Austrian Alps at concentrations ranging from 18-23 ug/L(3).
Cetyl alcohol has been detected in wastewater effluents collected from the following industries(1): textile mills, organic chemicals manufacturing and public owned treatment works(1). Cetyl alcohol emission rates from road dust samples was 2.4 ug/g(2).

NIOSH (NOES Survey 1981-1983) has statistically estimated that 421,759 workers (324,446 of these are female) are potentially exposed to Cetyl alcohol in the US(1). Occupational exposure to Cetyl alcohol may occur through dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where Cetyl alcohol is produced or used(SRC). Monitoring data indicate that the general population may be exposed to Cetyl alcohol via inhalation of ambient air and dermal contact with this compound and other consumer products containing Cetyl alcohol(SRC).

Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol is used in the Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic industries. Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol (CH3 (CH2) nOH) is a mixture of cetyl and stearyl alcohols that can come from vegetable or synthetic sources. It is classified as a fatty alcohol. Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol is a flake-shaped white, waxy, solid material. It is oil soluble but not water soluble. In the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industry, Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol acts as an emulsion stabilizer; opacifying agent; surfactant - foam booster; and viscosity enhancing agent. It is generally used in creams and lotions. It has a melting point of 50 ° C and a boiling point: 249 ° C. Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol . Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol (CH3 (CH2) nOH) is a mixture of cetyl and stearyl alcohols from vegetable or synthetic sources. Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol It is classified as a fatty alcohol. Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol is a white, waxy solid substance in the form of flakes. Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol Fat soluble, Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol but not water soluble. Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol In the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industry, Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol acts as an emulsion stabilizer. Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol is useful in the preparation of oil / water type emulsions that can remain stable over a wide pH range in combination with hydrophilic emulsifying agents. Also, Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol is used to increase the softening effect of pomades prepared with paraffin. Although Setostearyl Alcohol (Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol ) is a nonirritant substance, hypersensitivity reactions have been reported due to the main components of Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol cetyl and stearyl alcohol. Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol is a mixture of naturally derived (Coconut and Palm Oil) fatty alcohols, mainly Cetyl and Stearyl Alcohol. Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol develops a very effective viscosity in your creams, lotions and other personal care products, including anhydrous formulations such as body brighteners or oil blends. This amazing ingredient can be used to change the rheology and viscosity in the creation of both O / W and W / O emulsions. In addition to the improved viscosity, Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol also gives the formulation its emollience. Compared to Cetyl Alcohol, Setostearyl alcohol offers increased viscosity building effects as well as increased penetration of other additives. Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol has long been known as "carrier" and "penetration enhancer". Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol is a mixture of solid aliphatic alcohols mainly composed of cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol. Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol It is obtained by reducing the appropriate fatty acids. Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol British Pharmacopoeia (BP) and the American National Formula (USNF) state that it should not contain less than 90% cetyl + stearyl alcohol and less than 40% stearyl alcohol. Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol is used in cream, ointment and Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol as a hardener and Setostearyl Alcohol (Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol ) as emulsion stabilizer in other topical preparations. Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol It is useful in the preparation of oil / water type emulsions that can remain stable over a wide pH range in combination with hydrophilic emulsifying agents. Also, Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol is used to increase the softening effect of pomades prepared with paraffin. Although Setostearyl Alcohol (Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol ) is a nonirritant substance, hypersensitivity reactions have been reported due to the main components of Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol cetyl and stearyl alcohol. Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol is a mixture of stearic and cetyl alcohols in equal proportions. In nature, Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol is found in the form of solid white granules with a characteristic odor. It is used as a conditioning agent because it moisturizes enough and improves the wet / dry combout. A 30/70 blend will form a harder emulsion than Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol 70/30. Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol is a mixture of fatty alcohols mainly composed of cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol. These alcohols generally conform to the following formula.

Cetyl alcohol /ˈsiːtəl/, also known as hexadecan-1-ol and palmityl alcohol, is a C-16 fatty alcohol with the formula CH3(CH2)15OH. At room temperature, cetyl alcohol takes the form of a waxy white solid or flakes. The name cetyl derives from the whale oil (cetacea oil, from Latin: cetus, lit. 'whale', from Ancient Greek: κῆτος, romanized: kētos, lit. 'huge fish')[3] from which it was first isolated.

Preparation
Cetyl alcohol was discovered in 1817 by the French chemist Michel Chevreul when he heated spermaceti, a waxy substance obtained from sperm whale oil, with caustic potash (potassium hydroxide). Flakes of cetyl alcohol were left behind on cooling.[5] Modern production is based around the reduction of palmitic acid, which is obtained from palm oil.

Uses
Cetyl alcohol is used in the cosmetic industry as an opacifier in shampoos, or as an emollient, emulsifier or thickening agent in the manufacture of skin creams and lotions.[6] It is also employed as a lubricant for nuts and bolts, and is the active ingredient in some "liquid pool covers" (forming a non-volatile surface layer to reduce water evaporation, related latent vaporization heat loss, and thus to retain heat in the pool). Moreover, it can also be used as a non-ionic co-surfactant in emulsion applications.[7]

Side effects
People who suffer from eczema can be sensitive to cetyl alcohol, though this may be due to impurities rather than cetyl alcohol itself.[10] However, cetyl alcohol is sometimes included in medications used for the treatment of eczema.[

What is cetearyl alcohol?
Cetearyl alcohol is a chemical found in cosmetic products. It’s a white, waxy substance made from cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol, both fatty alcohols. They’re found in animals and plants, like coconut and palm oil. They can also be made in a laboratory.
They are used in personal care products, mainly skin lotions, hair products, and creams. They help create smoother creams, thicker lotions, and more stable foam products.
Fatty alcohols are sometimes called long-chain alcohols because of their chemical formula. They usually have an even number of carbon atoms, with a single alcohol group (–OH) attached to the last carbon.
Cetyl alcohol has 16 carbon atoms. Stearyl alcohol has 18. Cetearyl alcohol is a combination of the two, so it has 34 carbon atoms. Its molecular formula is C34H72O2.

What is it used for?
Cetyl alcohol helps prevent creams from separating into oil and liquid. A chemical that helps to keep liquid and oil together is known as an emulsifier. It may also make a product thicker or increase the product’s ability to foam.

Products with cetyl alcohol
skin lotions
moisturizers
skin creams
sunscreen
shampoo
conditioners
hair removal creams
hair mousse
anti-frizz hair cream
hair dye
mascara

Cetearyl alcohol isn’t the only fatty alcohol used in cosmetic products. Other examples include cetyl alcohol, lanolin, oleyl alcohol, and stearyl alcohol.
Cetyl alcohol, also known as 1-hexadecanol and palmityl alcohol, is a common ingredient in a variety of personal care products and cosmetics. It is derived from vegetable oils such as palm or coconut oil.

Uses & Benefits
In personal care products like skin lotions and creams, cetyl alcohol serves as a thickening agent and emulsifier, to help keep product ingredients from separating. Because cetyl alcohol melts at temperatures higher than the average human body temperature, it is useful in cosmetic products like lipsticks, helping lip color adhere to the skin.
Cetyl alcohol is also a multipurpose food additive, used as a flavoring agent or in food decorations. For example, cetyl alcohol is an ingredient in colorful lettering or pictures on some types of candy or gum.
In industrial applications, cetyl alcohol is a primary ingredient in fuels, chemical intermediates and plasticizers and is used as a lubricant for nuts and bolts in manufacturing applications.

Why is cetyl alcohol in cosmetics?
Cetyl alcohol acts as a binding agent, helping the various ingredients in many moisturizers, lotions and creams bind together, which helps enable smooth application.

Is cetyl alcohol “alcohol free”?
Products labeled “alcohol free” may still contain cetyl alcohol, or other fatty alcohols such as stearyl, cetearyl or lanolin alcohol. The term “alcohol,” used by itself, generally refers to ethanol (also known as ethyl alcohol or grain alcohol).

What is the difference between cetearyl alcohol and cetyl alcohol?
Cetyl alcohol is an ingredient in cetearyl alcohol, which is a mixture of cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol.

Is it safe?
You may have heard that you should avoid hair and skin products that contain alcohol. This is because many alcohols, like ethanol or rubbing alcohol, can be very drying. Using alcohol on your skin and hair could lead to itchiness, flaking, and skin peeling.
In fact, alcohols are commonly found in products like astringents, hand sanitizers, and aftershave due to their fast-drying and skin-tightening abilities.
However, fatty alcohols, like Cetyl alcohol, don’t have the same effect on the skin as other alcohols due to their chemical structure.
The chemical makeup of Cetyl alcohol is different from more commonly known alcohols. In Cetyl alcohol, the alcohol group (-OH) is attached to a very long chain of hydrocarbons (fats). This feature allows fatty alcohols to trap water and provides a soothing feel to the skin.
Chemicals that make the skin feel smooth are referred to as emollients. They work by forming an oily layer on the top of the skin to keep the moisture inside.

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has concluded that fatty alcohols, including Cetyl alcohol, are safe for use in cosmetic products. In clinical studies, Cetyl alcohol was found to have no significant toxicity and was non-mutagenic. A mutagen is a chemical agent that changes your DNA. DNA changes can cause certain diseases, such as cancer.
It was also found not to irritate the skin. According to the FDATrusted Source, even cosmetic products labeled “alcohol free” are allowed to contain Cetyl alcohol and other fatty alcohols. Cetyl alcohol is also included on the FDA list of safe and permitted food additives.
As with many skin care products, there’s a small risk of allergic reaction to Cetyl alcohol. A 2007 study confirmed five cases of allergy to Cetyl alcohol, but reactions to other chemical allergens also occurred in all of these cases.
A 1996 study of 140 people with suspected cosmetic contact dermatitis found that another commonly used fatty alcohol, oleyl alcohol, caused contact dermatitis in roughly 23 percent of those studied.

The bottom line
Cetyl alcohol is used to help soften the skin and hair and to thicken and stabilize cosmetic products, such as lotions and hair products. As an emollient, Cetyl alcohol is considered an effective ingredient for soothing and healing dry skin.
Unless you have very sensitive skin, you probably don’t need to avoid products containing Cetyl alcohol. Not only is it considered safe and nontoxic for use on the skin and hair, but it’s also not drying or irritating like other types of alcohol. Due to its chemical structure, Cetyl alcohol is even permitted by the FDA as an ingredient in products labeled “alcohol-free.”

Use Cetyl alcohol as directed. Some products require priming before use. Follow all directions on the product package. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Some Cetyl alcohol need to be shaken before use. Check the label to see if you should shake the bottle well before using. Apply to the affected areas of the skin as needed or as directed on the label or by your doctor. How often you apply the medication will depend on the product and your skin condition. To treat dry hands, you may need to use the product every time you wash your hands, applying it throughout the day.
If you are using this product to help treat diaper rash, clean the diaper area well before use and allow the area to dry before applying the product.
If you are using this product to help treat radiation skin burns, check with radiation personnel to see if your brand can be applied before radiation therapy.
Follow all the directions on the label for proper use. Apply to the skin only. Avoid sensitive areas such as your eyes, inside your mouth/nose, and the vaginal/groin area, unless the label or your doctor directs you otherwise. Check the label for directions about any areas or types of skin where you should not apply the product (e.g., on the face, any areas of broken/chapped/cut/irritated/scraped skin, or on a recently shaved area of the skin). Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

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