Comparing Cetearyl Alcohol Ratios (50/50 vs 30/70) for Cream Thickening
Question
Which blend provides better thickening properties in a cream formulation: `Cetearyl Alcohol (50/50, e.q. Lanette O)` or `Cetearyl Alcohol (30/70, eq. Lanette D)`?
Answer
The Cetearyl Alcohol (30/70, eq. Lanette D) will provide better thickening and a firmer texture in a cream base.
Explanation
Cetearyl Alcohol is a blend of two fatty alcohols: Cetyl Alcohol (C16) and Stearyl Alcohol (C18). In general, the thickening and structuring power of fatty alcohols increases with the length of the carbon chain (C18 provides more structure than C16).
- Cetearyl Alcohol (50/50, eq. Lanette O): Contains 50% Stearyl Alcohol (C18).
- Cetearyl Alcohol (30/70, eq. Lanette D): Contains 70% Stearyl Alcohol (C18).
Since the 30/70 blend has a significantly higher percentage of the longer-chain Stearyl Alcohol (C18), it forms a stronger crystalline structure within the emulsion, resulting in higher viscosity and a more robust, thicker cream texture.
Related Products Mentioned
Cetearyl Alcohol (50/50, e.q. Lanette O)
