Cetyl Palmitate (Palmityl Palmitate)

Cetyl Palmitate is an emulsifying wax used as both a structuring agent and an emollient. Cetyl palmitate helps build body and rigidity in formulations while also contributing to a smooth, cushioned glide during application. This balance of firmness and slip is particularly important in solid and semi-solid products that must maintain their shape while feeling comfortable on the skin. Because it is oil-soluble, it integrates seamlessly into oil phases and anhydrous formulations.

While cetyl palmitate can function effectively on its own, it is frequently used alongside other complementary ingredients such as fatty alcohols and other waxes to fine-tune texture and stability.

Formulators often incorporate cetyl palmitate in their formulations to achieve specific firmness, glide, or melting characteristics.

Chemistry of Cetyl Palmitate:

Cetyl palmitate is a wax ester compound formed from the esterification of cetyl alcohol and palmitic acid.

CAS Number: 540-10-3

Molecular Formula: C32H64O2

IUPAC name: Hexadecyl hexadecanoate

CAS Name: Hexadecanoic acid, hexadecyl ester

Structural Formula: CH₃(CH₂)₁₄CO₂(CH₂)₁₅CH₃

Molecular Weight: 480.85 g/mol

Melting Point: 55–56°C

Appearance: White to off-white solid granules or flakes

Typical Usage Range: 1–10%, depending on formulation

Solubility: Oil soluble

Applications & Uses:

Personal care formulators use cetyl palmitate in skin care products where structure and stability are critical.

What is cetyl palmitate used for?

·         Lip balms and stick products
Cetyl palmitate helps lip balms and lipsticks retain their form while improving glide and payoff. It supports a smooth application without excessive drag, which is essential for stick formats.

·         Balms, salves, and ointments
In semi-solid topical products, cetyl palmitate contributes body and structure while maintaining a refined, non-grainy texture. This makes it suitable for protective and conditioning formulations.

·         Thick creams and body butters
When used in higher-viscosity emulsions, cetyl palmitate enhances richness and stability, helping products feel substantial without becoming overly heavy.

·         Solid deodorants
Shape retention is critical in solid deodorant systems. Cetyl palmitate supports firmness and consistency while allowing for smooth skin contact during application.

·         Specialty anhydrous systems
In water-free formulations, cetyl palmitate performs reliably as a structuring wax that contributes to both stability and sensory appeal.

Because of its versatility, formulators rely on cetyl palmitate for skin care applications that require consistency across multiple product formats.

Industries Served

Cetyl palmitate is widely sourced by organizations involved in the development, manufacturing, and scaling of cosmetic and topical products.

Industries that commonly use cetyl palmitate include:

·         Personal care manufacturers
Companies producing finished cosmetic and skin care products rely on cetyl palmitate for its functional and sensory benefits across multiple formulations.

·         Cosmetic formulation laboratories
R&D teams and labs use cetyl palmitate to fine-tune texture, firmness, and application characteristics during product development.

·         Contract manufacturers
Third-party producers value cetyl palmitate for its batch-to-batch consistency and compatibility with standardized production processes.

·         Pharmaceutical topical producers
In topical systems such as ointments and medicated balms, cetyl palmitate contributes structure while supporting smooth application.

·         Specialty formulation houses
Custom formulators working with cosmetics and personal care products often select cetyl palmitate for its adaptability across diverse product types.

Additional Information

In stick-based applications, cetyl palmitate supports shape retention and smooth application, helping products glide evenly across the skin while holding their form. It can be used on its own as a primary structuring agent or combined with other waxes and fatty alcohols to fine-tune hardness, melting behavior, and sensory performance.

Cetyl palmitate is also a key component in broader cetyl esters blends, where it contributes to structure and consistency while supporting a smooth, waxy profile. Its compatibility with oil phases and anhydrous systems makes it a versatile option across a wide range of cosmetic and personal care formulations.

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• Model: CETPALM
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