What it is
Cetearyl Ethylhexanoate is an ester formed from cetearyl alcohol and 2-ethylhexanoic acid. It is a lightweight emollient oil prized for its dry, silky after-feel and its ability to help other ingredients spread evenly across the skin. In sunscreens it is frequently used to soften the texture, reduce greasiness, and aid the even distribution of UV filters.
Safety & warnings
This ester emollient is generally well tolerated and is widely used in leave-on products for its light feel. It has a low likelihood of irritation in typical cosmetic use.
Origin & sourcing
Synthetic, produced by esterifying cetearyl alcohol with 2-ethylhexanoic (ethylhexanoic) acid; the feedstocks may themselves be plant-derived or petrochemical.
Questions everyone asks
What does Cetearyl Ethylhexanoate do?
It is a light ester emollient that gives a smooth, non-greasy feel and helps a formula spread evenly.
Is it natural or synthetic?
It is a synthetic ester, though its starting materials can be plant-derived.