Cetyl Glyceryl Ether

Good

Emollient

Cetyl Glyceryl Ether at a glance

  • Emollient made from reaction of glycerin and cetyl alcohol
  • Helps soften and condition skin and hair
  • Considered safe as used in cosmetics
  • May be plant-derived or synthetic

Cetyl Glyceryl Ether description

Cetyl glyceryl ether is a synthetic or plant-derived emollient made from glycerin and the fatty alcohol cetyl alcohol. Chemically, it’s an ether, a compound possessing carbon-oxygen-carbon bonds that can also have solvent properties. This ingredient has no color or discernible odor and is soluble in both water and oil, giving it helpful versatility. It’s considered safe for skin and may be listed as chimyl alcohol. Use levels of cetyl glyceryl ether in cosmetics ranges from 0.1–5% depending on formulary needs and desired aesthetics. It’s almost always used with other emollients and emulsifiers to create a given product’s distinctive texture and help enhance stability (such as preventing separation of the water and oil phases). Cetyl glyceryl ether is considered safe as used in cosmetics.

Cetyl Glyceryl Ether references

  • International Journal of Toxicology, September-October 2013, pages 5S–23S
  • National Library of Medicine, PubChem, Accessed February 2024, Webpage

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

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Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.