CETYL PALMITATE

Cetyl Palmitate is used as occlusive and masking ingredient enhances emulsion stability. 
Cetyl Palmitate is a naturally occurring fatty acid ester that results from the combination of cetyl alcohol and palmitic acid.
Cetyl Palmitates chemical formula is C₃₂H₆₄O₂, and it belongs to the group of long-chain wax esters.

CAS Number: 540-10-3
Molecular Formula: C32H64O2
Molecular Weight: 480.85
EINECS Number: 208-736-6

Synonyms: Cetyl palmitate, 540-10-3, Palmityl palmitate, Hexadecyl hexadecanoate, Hexadecanoic acid, hexadecyl ester, n-Hexadecyl hexadecanoate, Palmitic acid, hexadecyl ester, 5ZA2S6B08X, CHEBI:75584, WE(16:0/16:0), DTXSID5047114, RefChem:918287, DTXCID3027114, 208-736-6, Hexadecyl palmitate, Cetin, Hexadecanyl hexadecanoate, Standamul 1616, Hexadecanoic acid hexadecyl ester, MFCD00053739, Palmitic acid palmityl ester, Cetyl palmitate [NF], C32H64O2, Palmitic acid, cetyl ester, 95912-87-1, Cetyl palmitate (NF), 100231-74-1, Palmitic acid hexadecyl ester, n-Hexadecyl palmitate, EINECS 208-736-6, BRN 1805188, UNII-5ZA2S6B08X, Schercemol CP, Crodamol CP, Precifac ATO, Starfol CP, Cutina CP, EINECS 309-375-8, Waxenol 815, Kessco 653, n-Hexadecanyl palmitate, Radia 7500, SCHEMBL44487, Cetyl palmitate [II], Cetyl palmitate [MI], n-Hexyldecyl palmitate, Palmityl palmitate, ≥99%, Palmitic acid n-Hexadecyl ester, Cetyl palmitate [VANDF], Cetyl palmitate [MART.], CHEMBL2106073, Cetyl palmitate [USP-RS], Cetyl palmitate [WHO-DD], MSK2051, YFC06615, EINECS 306-083-2, Hexadecyl ester of hexadecanoic acid, LMFA07010001, SBB058698, AKOS015903369, Cetyl palmitate [EP MONOGRAPH], CS-W011523, HY-W010807, DS-11394, SY010863, DB-052456, NS00012089, P1077, ST51037392, D08888, D70209, EC 306-083-2, F791126, Q409361, Cetyl palmitate 15, European Pharmacopoeia (EP) Reference Standard, Cetyl palmitate 95, European Pharmacopoeia (EP) Reference Standard, Cetyl palmitate, United States Pharmacopeia (USP) Reference Standard, Cetyl palmitate, Pharmaceutical Secondary Standard; Certified Reference Material, SPERMACETI;PALMATIC ACID N-HEXADECYL ESTER;Cetyl Palmitate (50 mg);n-Hexadecyl palMitate, 98% 25GR;n-Hexadecyl palMitate, 98% 5GR;SperMwax;Cetyl Palmitate Palmitic Acid Hexadecyl Ester;PalMityl palMitate, 95+%

Cetyl Palmitate is a pure vegetable lipid ester derived from cetyl alcohol & palmitic acid (naturally occurring fatty acid). 
Cetyl palmitate is a natural substance as it occurs naturally in spermaceti of sperm whales.
Great skin-conditioning and emollient ingredient. 

Cetyl Palmitate appears as a white, waxy solid with a faint, pleasant odor and a smooth texture.
This compound is commonly found in natural waxes, including spermaceti, beeswax, and plant waxes.
Cetyl Palmitate is also one of the major constituents of human sebum, where it contributes to the skin’s natural lubrication.

In nature, cetyl palmitate plays a key role in protecting surfaces from dehydration and environmental damage.
Chemically, it is the ester of palmitic acid (hexadecanoic acid) and cetyl alcohol (hexadecanol).
This structure gives it both hydrophobic and emollient characteristics, allowing it to spread easily and form protective films.

Cetyl Palmitate is insoluble in water but readily soluble in oils, alcohols, and other lipophilic solvents.
Cetyl palmitate is often referred to as a wax ester due to its solid, wax-like nature at room temperature.
Cetyl Palmitate melts between 47°C and 50°C, forming a smooth liquid when heated.

This physical property makes it useful in products that require structure, stability, and a creamy feel.
In the cosmetic and personal care industry, cetyl palmitate is used as a thickener, emollient, and texture enhancer.
Cetyl Palmitate gives creams and lotions a silky, rich consistency and helps them spread evenly on the skin.

By forming a thin lipid film, it reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and improves skin softness.
Cetyl Palmitate also serves as a co-emulsifier that stabilizes oil-in-water and water-in-oil emulsions.
This allows the product to maintain a uniform consistency over time without separation.

As a result, it is found in moisturizers, sunscreens, foundations, and body butters.
In pharmaceutical formulations, cetyl palmitate functions as a base material for ointments and controlled-release drugs.
Cetyl Palmitates chemical stability and biocompatibility allow for the safe delivery of active ingredients through the skin.

Because it is non-toxic and non-irritating, it is commonly used in topical medications and dermatological creams.
In ophthalmic and medical applications, cetyl palmitate provides lubrication and smoothness.
Cetyl Palmitate is used in eye ointments, lens coatings, and pharmaceutical lubricants to reduce friction and irritation.

Its mild nature makes it suitable for sensitive tissues and long-term medical use.
Cetyl palmitate is also used in hair care products such as conditioners and serums.
Cetyl Palmitate helps smooth the hair cuticle, enhances shine, and reduces tangling or frizz.

Its waxy coating provides a protective barrier that improves moisture retention in hair fibers.
In makeup and personal care formulations, cetyl palmitate is included in lipsticks, foundations, mascaras, and balms.
Cetyl Palmitate contributes to the product’s structure and helps achieve a soft, spreadable consistency.

Cetyl Palmitate also improves adherence to the skin or lips, giving a more uniform application.
In the food and nutraceutical industries, cetyl palmitate is used as a glazing and coating agent.
Cetyl Palmitate provides a moisture-resistant barrier for tablets, capsules, and confectionery products.

This coating prevents oxidation and moisture absorption, enhancing shelf life and product appearance.
Cetyl palmitate is also used as a lubricant and anti-caking agent in the plastics and coatings industries.
Cetyl Palmitate reduces friction between solid surfaces and imparts gloss and smoothness to materials.

These properties make it valuable in polishes, wax papers, and surface treatments.
From a biological perspective, cetyl palmitate mimics the lipid composition of natural skin oils.
This makes it an excellent choice for formulations designed to restore and protect the skin barrier.

Cetyl Palmitate supports hydration while maintaining the skin’s elasticity and resilience.
Cetyl Palmitate is a biodegradable, non-toxic, and environmentally safe compound.
Because it can be sourced from renewable natural fats and oils, it is favored in eco-friendly product lines.

Manufacturers typically obtain it through the esterification of palmitic acid and cetyl alcohol under controlled heat and pressure.
Cetyl palmitate’s chemical stability allows it to resist oxidation and rancidity.
This ensures that formulations containing it maintain their texture, appearance, and odor over time.

Cetyl Palmitate also enhances the shelf life of other lipid components in blends.
In dermatological treatments, cetyl palmitate is used in wound-healing creams and barrier repair formulations.
Cetyl Palmitate soothes irritation, softens scar tissue, and promotes epidermal regeneration.

Because it is non-comedogenic, it does not clog pores or cause acne.
Cetyl palmitate can also serve as a carrier for active lipophilic substances such as vitamins A, D, and E.
Cetyl Palmitate helps encapsulate these ingredients, protecting them from oxidation and degradation.

This makes it a vital excipient in both cosmetic and pharmaceutical technologies.
In aerosol and spray formulations, cetyl palmitate acts as a film-forming and dispersing agent.
Cetyl Palmitate allows even coating on surfaces and prevents drying or cracking after application.

This feature is particularly useful in sunscreens and makeup setting sprays.
In marine biology and natural ecosystems, cetyl palmitate is a key component of whale oil and wax esters in marine organisms.
Cetyl Palmitate provides energy storage and buoyancy functions in cold aquatic environments.

Its stability and hydrophobicity make it an ideal long-term energy molecule in nature.
From a chemical engineering viewpoint, cetyl palmitate has excellent compatibility with other esters, oils, and waxes.
Cetyl Palmitate blends easily with lanolin, paraffin, and natural plant oils.

This versatility makes it a go-to ingredient in both natural and synthetic product formulations.
In terms of safety, cetyl palmitate has been evaluated by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) and deemed safe for use in cosmetics.
Cetyl Palmitate is not an irritant or sensitizer and shows no evidence of carcinogenicity or systemic toxicity.

However, like all waxy substances, it should be handled under hygienic and temperature-controlled conditions to maintain purity.
Cetyl Palmitate is a multifunctional, biocompatible, and stable wax ester valued across numerous industries.

Cetyl Palmitates emollient, lubricating, and stabilizing properties make it a cornerstone in cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and industrial formulations.
Because it is renewable, non-toxic, and environmentally safe, it continues to be a preferred ingredient in sustainable product development.

Melting point: 55–56 °C (lit.)
Boiling point: 360 °C
Density: d20 0.989 g/cm³
Refractive index: 1.4429 (589.3 nm, 60 °C)
Storage temperature: 2–8 °C
Solubility: Soluble in hot acetone
Form: Crystalline powder
Color: White to almost white
Biological source: Synthetic (organic)
Merck: 14,2031
Dielectric constant: 2.2 (ambient)
InChI: InChI=1S/C32H64O2/c1-3-5-7-9-11-13-15-17-19-21-23-25-27-29-31-34-32(33)30-28-26-24-22-20-18-16-14-12-10-8-6-4-2/h3-31H2,1-2H3
InChIKey: PXDJXZJSCPSGGI-UHFFFAOYSA-N
SMILES: C(OCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCC)(=O)CCCCCCCCCCCCCCC
LogP: 15.051 (estimated)

Cetyl palmitate is a fatty ester composed as a result of the reaction between Cetyl alcohol and palmitic acid. Palmitic acid is a naturally occurring long-chain fatty acid, as the name suggests from palm oil. 
Cetyl Palmitate is naturally found as a primary ingredient in spermaceti, found from whale’s skull. 
Cetyl Palmitate comes as white waxy flakes, with a faint odor.

A palmitate ester resulting from the formal condensation of palmitic acid with palmityl alcohol. 
Cetyl Palmitate is used as a thickener and emollient in cosmetics.
Cetyl Palmitate is a cosmetic ingredient widely used as an emollient, emulsifier, and thickening agent in skincare and personal care products. 

In its raw form, this compound appears as a white, waxy solid. 
Cetyl Palmitate enhances the texture of creams and lotions, imparting a smooth and silky feel to the skin while also helping to stabilize formulations. 
Its emollient properties contribute to skin hydration by forming a protective barrier that reduces moisture loss. 

Additionally, it improves the spreadability of products, ensuring even application. 
The chemical formula of Cetyl Palmitate is C32H64O2.
Cetyl Palmitate is an ester of palmitic acid, obtained via the reaction of cetyl alcohol and palmitic acid. 

Cetyl Palmitate is an ingredient of many cosmetic preparations.
Pharmaceutical secondary standards for application in quality control, provide pharma laboratories and manufacturers with a convenient and cost-effective alternative to the preparation of in-house working standards.
Hexadecyl hexadecanoate, also known as cetyl palmitate, is the ester derived from hexadecanoic acid and 1-hexadecanol. 

This white waxy solid is the primary constituent of spermaceti, the once highly prized wax found in the skull of sperm whales.
Cetyl Palmitate is a component of some solid lipid nanoparticles.
Stony corals, which build the coral reefs, contain large amounts of cetyl palmitate wax in their tissues, which may function in part as an antifeedant.

Cetyl palmitate is one of the most important natural wax esters found in both animal and plant sources.
It occurs in spermaceti oil, a wax obtained from sperm whales, and in palm and coconut-derived lipids.
Its abundance in nature and ease of synthesis make it an accessible and sustainable raw material for multiple industries.

It plays a vital role in the formation of skin lipids, particularly in maintaining the protective outer layer known as the stratum corneum.
By forming an occlusive film, it helps retain skin moisture and prevent dehydration.
This function contributes to smoother, more supple skin and reduces roughness caused by dryness or external irritants.

In anti-aging skincare, cetyl palmitate enhances the performance of active ingredients like retinol and coenzyme Q10.
It acts as a lipid carrier, allowing these ingredients to penetrate deeper into the skin.
The result is a more even distribution of actives and improved absorption efficiency.

In dermatological science, cetyl palmitate is recognized for its excellent biocompatibility with human skin lipids.
It does not disrupt the skin’s pH or cause allergic reactions, even with prolonged use.
This makes it ideal for hypoallergenic creams, baby lotions, and sensitive-skin formulations.

It is often combined with cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, and glyceryl stearate to create balanced emulsifying systems.
These combinations improve viscosity and give creams a rich, luxurious feel without greasiness.
Such mixtures are used in high-end skincare products and pharmaceutical emulsions.

In sunscreens and after-sun care, cetyl palmitate acts as a film-forming agent that enhances water resistance.
It locks in moisture while maintaining the stability of UV filters under sunlight exposure.
This property helps create long-lasting sun protection formulations that feel smooth on the skin.

In cold creams and barrier protectors, cetyl palmitate provides both stability and soothing effects.
It resists oxidation, preventing rancid smells and preserving the product’s freshness.
It also contributes to a cooling sensation when applied, making it ideal for soothing creams.

In aromatherapy and massage oils, cetyl palmitate helps adjust the viscosity and tactile feel of oils.
It creates a silky texture that spreads easily without leaving a heavy or sticky residue.
Because it slows evaporation, it helps retain fragrances and essential oils longer on the skin.

In lip care products, cetyl palmitate enhances smoothness and gloss while preventing cracking or drying.
It is widely used in lip balms, glosses, and medicated lip treatments.
Its waxy structure improves adherence to the lips and enhances long-term hydration.

In cosmetic chemistry, cetyl palmitate is valued for its chemical inertness and resistance to hydrolysis.
This makes it compatible with both acidic and basic pH ranges, allowing use in various formulations.
Its non-reactive nature ensures product safety and longevity.

The ester of cetyl alcohol and palmitic acid, this thickener and emollient helps smooth and condition dry skin. 
The ingredients that comprise cetyl palmitate are naturally occurring fatty acids.
Cetyl palmitate may be derived from animals (it is a component of corals) but can also - and is usually - derived from plants or manufactured synthetically (this is the type Paula’s Choice uses). 

In its raw form, it is a waxy white solid.
The independent Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel has found that cetyl palmitate safe as used in cosmetics, where its usage is usually in concentrations of 2.7% or less.

Uses Of Cetyl Palmitate:
Cetyl Palmitate is a wax ester of palmitic acid used in cosmetic and personal care products.
The chemical structure of Cetyl Palmitate is the same as whale spermaceti. 
It may be used to thicken, produce viscose emulsions, give stability, and add texture to emulsions. 

Cetyl Palmitate is similar to cetearyl palmitate.
Cetyl palmitate is used in cosmetics as a thickener and emulsifier.
Cetyl palmitate is widely used in natural and synthetic cosmetic formulations due to its wax-like structure and smooth texture.

It enhances the feel, appearance, and performance of products designed for skin protection and hydration.
Its renewable origin and stability make it an ideal alternative to synthetic waxes and silicones.
In dermatological skincare, it functions as a moisturizing and barrier-repairing agent.

By mimicking natural skin lipids, it locks in moisture and prevents dryness or flaking.
This makes it essential in creams, balms, and lotions intended for dry, sensitive, or mature skin.
In anti-aging and repair creams, cetyl palmitate acts as a carrier lipid that improves the delivery of active ingredients.

Cetyl Palmitate helps transport compounds like retinol, coenzyme Q10, and peptides deep into the skin.
As a result, it enhances cell renewal and improves the overall texture and elasticity of the skin.

In sensitive-skin and hypoallergenic formulations, cetyl palmitate is used as a soothing and non-irritating emollient.
It helps reduce inflammation, redness, and irritation caused by external factors.
Because it is biocompatible, it is suitable for baby lotions and medical-grade skincare products.

It is used as a co-emulsifier and texture stabilizer in emulsions containing both water and oil phases.
This ensures that the product maintains its consistency without separating during storage.
Manufacturers use it to produce creams, sunscreens, and lotions with a rich but non-greasy feel.

In sunscreen formulations, cetyl palmitate enhances film formation and water resistance.
It binds UV filters evenly across the skin, ensuring uniform protection from sun exposure.
Its hydrophobic film helps maintain product performance even after sweating or swimming.

In cold creams and protective ointments, cetyl palmitate provides stability, smoothness, and soothing effects.
It helps keep moisture locked in the skin and adds a silky after-feel.
It also slows oxidation in formulations, improving the product’s shelf life.

In massage and aromatherapy oils, cetyl palmitate is used to enhance glide and reduce friction.
It helps oils spread evenly over the skin without leaving a greasy residue.
Its presence also helps fragrances and essential oils last longer by slowing evaporation.

In lip care products, it gives structure, smoothness, and gloss to balms and lipsticks.
It prevents cracking and dryness by forming a thin moisturizing layer over the lips.
It also improves adherence, ensuring even application and long-lasting hydration.

In cosmetic chemistry, cetyl palmitate is employed as a neutral and stable thickening agent.
It enhances viscosity and prevents separation in emulsions over time.
Because it remains inert, it doesn’t interact with colorants, perfumes, or active ingredients.

It is used as a binding and cohesion agent in pressed powders and makeup sticks.
This helps powders hold together without breaking and creates a smooth, uniform texture.
It also enhances adherence of the product to the skin for a more even finish.

In medical ointments, cetyl palmitate acts as a base for antiseptics, healing agents, and soothing balms.
It allows controlled release of active substances like zinc oxide or corticosteroids.
This ensures continuous action and helps create a breathable protective layer over wounds.

In biomedical engineering, cetyl palmitate is used as a carrier material for lipid nanoparticles and controlled-release systems.
It forms the lipid matrix in solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) and nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs).
These technologies enable slow and targeted drug delivery for improved therapeutic efficiency.

In sustainable and green product lines, cetyl palmitate is valued as a renewable and biodegradable wax.
It replaces petroleum-based ingredients in eco-friendly formulations.
Its natural origin from palm or coconut oil makes it compatible with environmental certification standards.

In perfumery and fragrance design, cetyl palmitate acts as a fixative to stabilize volatile scents.
It reduces evaporation of essential oils and aromatic compounds, prolonging fragrance duration.
This property makes it ideal for long-lasting perfumes, body lotions, and scented balms.

In marine and bio-inspired technologies, cetyl palmitate is used in water-repellent and antifouling coatings.
Its hydrophobic surface reduces adhesion of microorganisms and sediments on marine equipment.
This minimizes maintenance costs and improves the efficiency of vessels and underwater structures.

In industrial processing, cetyl palmitate is applied as a lubricant, mold-release, and anti-sticking agent.
It facilitates demolding in plastics, rubber, and resin production without damaging surfaces.
It also improves the gloss and smoothness of finished materials.

In laboratory research and analytical chemistry, cetyl palmitate is used as a reference standard.
It helps calibrate instruments for the analysis of natural waxes, fats, and oils.
Because of its defined molecular structure and high purity, it ensures accurate measurement results.

In capsule and tablet manufacturing, cetyl palmitate serves as a lubricant and coating agent.
It prevents tablets from sticking to machinery and enhances capsule flexibility.
This contributes to easier swallowing and better protection of active ingredients.

In food technology, it is employed as a glazing agent for confectionery and coatings.
It forms a thin, protective film that resists moisture and oxidation.
This enhances product appearance, shelf life, and resistance to humidity.

In environmental systems, cetyl palmitate is considered an eco-friendly ingredient due to its biodegradability.
It breaks down into natural fatty acids and alcohols without leaving harmful residues.
Therefore, it is preferred in sustainable cosmetic and pharmaceutical manufacturing.

In toxicological studies, it serves as a low-risk control compound for testing lipid metabolism and absorption.
Its biocompatibility allows use in animal and cellular models without toxic effects.
Researchers use it to study lipid transport and formulation behavior under physiological conditions.

In formulation science, cetyl palmitate improves product stability, spreadability, and tactile performance.
It gives emulsions a soft, velvety touch and reduces greasiness in high-oil systems.
This balance makes it a key ingredient in modern skincare textures like gels and emulsified balms.

Its oxidative resistance ensures that products remain fresh even under heat and light exposure.
It protects other oils and waxes from rancidification, extending formulation shelf life.
This makes it ideal for use in tropical climates or long-storage applications.

Finally, cetyl palmitate remains one of the most versatile, safe, and sustainable ingredients used in modern industries.
It serves as a bridge between nature and technology, offering performance without compromising safety or environmental health.
Its balance of softness, protection, and stability continues to make it a cornerstone ingredient in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and beyond.

Cetyl Palmitate is used as emollients, masking agents and skin conditioning and a glosser and thickener for creams. 
It improves emulsion texture and stability and gives structure to cosmetic sticks. Used in skin and hair applications.
It is fatty in nature and water-insoluble, meaning when it is applied to the skin it forms a waterproof layer on the skin, which is the main characteristic of a good conditioner. 

Also, it does not allow already present moisture to escape and keeps skin moist with its moisture reservoir. 
It also acts as an occlusive or masking agent, helpful in any formulation to give a visibly acceptable appearance of the product with different colors. 
It is nongreasy so, reduces the greasy feeling of oil systems. 

Cetyl Palmitate can also form a film over the skin or hair surface, mainly because it is waterproof. 
It also imparts any emulsion more significant stability. It is used in lotions, creams, moisturizers, lipsticks, hair care, sunscreens, deodorant sticks, and cleansers.

Safety Profile Of Cetyl Palmitate:
In its raw or powdered form, cetyl palmitate may cause minor mechanical irritation to the eyes and skin.
Dust particles can irritate mucous membranes if inhaled during large-scale handling or manufacturing.
However, these effects are mild and reversible with proper ventilation and hygiene practices.

During cosmetic formulation processes, molten cetyl palmitate can cause thermal burns if splashed on the skin.
Heated vapors are not highly toxic, but they may irritate the respiratory tract if inhaled directly.
Protective gloves and eyewear are recommended during handling at elevated temperatures.

In skincare applications, cetyl palmitate poses minimal hazard because it is non-irritating and non-sensitizing.
However, some individuals with very sensitive or acne-prone skin may experience pore clogging (comedogenic effects).
This risk is low and typically depends on concentration and formulation design.

In anti-aging and medicated creams, impurities in poorly refined cetyl palmitate can sometimes trigger mild skin sensitivity.
Prolonged exposure to contaminated materials may cause itching or redness.
High-purity pharmaceutical-grade cetyl palmitate avoids these problems entirely.

When used in baby or hypoallergenic skincare, cetyl palmitate has an extremely low allergenic potential.
It does not penetrate deeply into the skin and is considered biologically inert.
Nonetheless, overuse of thick creams containing it can trap sweat and cause mild irritation in rare cases.

In sunscreens, cetyl palmitate is chemically stable under sunlight but may oxidize slightly under extreme UV exposure.
This oxidation can produce trace degradation products that may irritate sensitive skin.
Proper formulation with antioxidants like vitamin E prevents this effect.

In cold creams and barrier ointments, cetyl palmitate itself is safe, but excessive heating during production can lead to smoke or minor decomposition vapors.
These vapors may irritate the eyes or throat if inhaled in confined spaces.
Adequate ventilation and temperature control eliminate this risk.

When used in massage oils or aromatherapy products, cetyl palmitate is not volatile and poses no inhalation hazard.
However, contamination with rancid oils or essential oil residues can cause oxidation and odor irritation.
Storage in tightly closed containers prevents such degradation.

In lip balms and makeup, cetyl palmitate is non-toxic if ingested in small quantities.
Accidental ingestion through lip products is safe because the substance is digestible as a fatty ester.
In very large quantities, it may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to its fatty nature.

In cosmetic laboratories, handling cetyl palmitate powder may generate low-level airborne dust.
Inhalation can cause mild respiratory irritation or coughing.
Dust masks or respirators are advised in industrial blending or weighing operations.

As a binding agent in pressed powders, cetyl palmitate poses no chemical hazard, but mechanical dust irritation remains possible.
Eye protection should be used when grinding or mixing.
Chronic exposure to dust without protection may cause dryness or slight inflammation of the nasal passages.