CETYL ETHYLHEXANOATE
Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, also called cetyl 2-ethylhexanoate, is an ester made by joining cetyl alcohol and 2-ethylhexanoic acid. On an ingredient list, the name identifies a specific oil-affine substance; it does not mean that the material is a plant oil extracted directly from a botanical source.
CETYL ETHYLHEXANOATE: what it is
Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, also called cetyl 2-ethylhexanoate, is an ester made by joining cetyl alcohol and 2-ethylhexanoic acid. On an ingredient list, the name identifies a specific oil-affine substance; it does not mean that the material is a plant oil extracted directly from a botanical source.
Its chemical name also distinguishes it from cetyl alcohol, a different cosmetic raw material. In this case, cetyl alcohol is part of the already formed ester, producing a different molecule that is included in a formula for the way it contributes to the product's feel and application.
CETYL ETHYLHEXANOATE: what it does in cosmetics
Cetyl Ethylhexanoate is used as an emollient. In everyday terms, it helps a product spread and can leave the skin feeling softer to the touch; it does not add water to the skin. This kind of ingredient is used when a formula is intended to feel smoother during application.
A Cosmetic Ingredient Review assessment considered Cetyl Ethylhexanoate within a family of alkyl ethylhexanoates used as skin-conditioning agents. A 2024 study used it with other ingredients to examine an emulsion's structure, so that result does not show a skin benefit from Cetyl Ethylhexanoate on its own or support a claim to treat dryness or any skin condition.
CETYL ETHYLHEXANOATE: conditions and care
The alkyl ethylhexanoate family assessment limited its safety conclusion to the evaluated uses and to nonirritating formulations; this is not a guarantee for every finished product.
Products containing this ingredient
See which products include it and the name used in each composition.
