Using Stearyl Alcohol Instead of Cetyl Alcohol for Lotion Thickening
Question
In a lotion formulation, can Stearyl Alcohol ([url=https://www.myskinrecipes.com/shop/texturizer-%E0%B8%9B%E0%B8%A3%E0%B8%B1%E0%B8%9A%E0%B9%81%E0%B8%95%E0%B9%88%E0%B8%87%E0%B8%AA%E0%B8%B1%E0%B8%A1%E0%B8%9C%E0%B8%B1%E0%B8%AA/8035-stearyl-alcohol.html:2kjaff24]Stearyl Alcohol[/url:2kjaff24]) be used alone instead of Cetyl Alcohol ([url=http://www.myskinrecipes.com/shop/%E0%B8%AA%E0%B9%88%E0%B8%A7%E0%B8%99%E0%B8%9B%E0%B8%A3%E0%B8%B0%E0%B8%81%E0%B8%AD%E0%B8%9A%E0%B9%80%E0%B8%84%E0%B8%A3%E0%B8%B7%E0%B9%88%E0%B8%AD%E0%B8%87%E0%B8%AA%E0%B8%B3%E0%B8%AD%E0%B8%B2%E0%B8%87%E0%B8%84%E0%B9%8C/173-cetyl-alcohol-vegetable.html:2kjaff24]Cetyl Alcohol[/url:2kjaff24]) to increase the viscosity of the lotion?
Answer
Yes, you can use Stearyl Alcohol alone in a lotion formulation to help increase viscosity and act as a stabilizer and co-emulsifier. Both Stearyl Alcohol and Cetyl Alcohol are fatty alcohols that serve similar functions in emulsions, contributing to thickening and stability.
However, Stearyl Alcohol has a slightly longer carbon chain than Cetyl Alcohol, which can result in a different texture. Stearyl Alcohol tends to create a firmer, more waxy feel compared to Cetyl Alcohol. The optimal usage rate might also differ between the two ingredients to achieve a similar level of thickening.
While using Stearyl Alcohol alone is possible, formulators often use a blend of fatty alcohols, such as Cetearyl Alcohol (a mixture of Cetyl and Stearyl alcohols), to achieve a balanced texture and enhanced stability in lotion formulations.
In summary, Stearyl Alcohol can substitute Cetyl Alcohol for thickening purposes, but be aware that the final texture of your lotion may differ, and you might need to adjust the concentration.
Related Products Mentioned
Cetyl Alcohol
Cetearyl Alcohol (50/50, e.q. Lanette O)
Stearyl Alcohol
