Stearyl Alcohol – Cosmetic Thickener & Structuring Agent (C18 Fatty Alcohol)
Stearyl Alcohol is a long-chain fatty alcohol (C18) derived from vegetable sources and widely used in cosmetic and personal care formulations as a thickener, emollient, stabilizer, and structuring agent. It provides body, viscosity, and a rich, creamy texture to lotions, creams, conditioners, and balms.
Despite its name, Stearyl Alcohol is not a drying alcohol like ethanol or isopropyl alcohol. It is a waxy, conditioning fatty alcohol that enhances slip, improves product stability, and contributes to a smooth, elegant skin feel.
Stearyl Alcohol is especially valued for its ability to build structure and firmness in emulsified systems while improving long-term stability.
Common applications include:
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Lotions and body creams
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Hair conditioners and masks
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Emulsified body butters
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Cream cleansers
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Sunscreens
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Deodorant sticks
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Solid and semi-solid cosmetic systems
Why Formulators Choose Stearyl Alcohol
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Increases viscosity and product thickness
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Improves emulsion stability
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Enhances creaminess and structure
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Adds slip and conditioning to hair products
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Provides a smooth, non-greasy afterfeel
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Helps create more stable, long-lasting formulations
Stearyl Alcohol can be used alone as a structuring agent or alongside emulsifying waxes, fatty acids, and co-emulsifiers to enhance overall product performance.
Technical Information
INCI Name: Stearyl Alcohol
Chemical Name: Octadecanol
CAS Number: 112-92-5
Chemical Formula: C18H38O
Appearance: White waxy flakes, beads, or pastilles
Solubility: Oil soluble
Usage Rate: Typically 1% to 15% depending on formulation
Origin: Vegetable derived
How It Works in Formulations
Stearyl Alcohol thickens and stabilizes emulsions by forming a crystalline network within the oil phase. When melted and incorporated into emulsified systems, it increases viscosity and improves structural integrity.
Compared to Cetyl Alcohol (C16), Stearyl Alcohol provides a slightly firmer, more structured end product. It is often selected when formulators want a thicker, more substantial texture or when creating solid cosmetic formats such as sticks and balms.
