A To Z Chemicals

Cetyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol with many uses, including in cosmetics, food, and industrial applications. 

Cosmetics

• Skin care: Cetyl alcohol is used in creams, lotions, and ointments as an emollient, emulsifier, and thickening agent. It can also help protect skin from irritations caused by bites, rashes, and stings. 
• Hair care: Cetyl alcohol is used as an opacifier in shampoos. 
• Lipsticks: Cetyl alcohol helps lip color adhere to the skin because it melts at a higher temperature than the average human body temperature. 

Food 

• Flavoring: Cetyl alcohol is used as a flavoring agent in food.
• Food decorations: Cetyl alcohol is used in colorful lettering or pictures on some types of candy or gum.