Cetyl Palmitate

Moisturizing
Other functions
Origin
Cetyl Palmitate

Overview

Cetyl palmitate is a wax ester that consists of cetyl alcohol and palmitic acid. It is a colorless, wax-like ingredient that is used in skincare products as a thickener and for its emollient and moisturizing (occlusive) properties.

In nature, it is found, and was first identified, in spermaceti – a waxy substance from inside the skull of the sperm whale. It is made synthetically these days as a protection measure for sperm whales.