Cetearyl Behenate
AKA “Cetearyl Ester, Cetearyl Behenic Acid Ester
Emollient
Ingredient Facts
Cetearyl behenate
AKA: Cetearyl Ester, Cetearyl Behenic Acid Ester
Emollient · Emollient · EWG: 1
Plant-Derived
Emollient
Skin Conditioner
Barrier Support
Plant Oil
Clean
Docosanoic acid, C16-18 alkyl ester
CAS #
246159-35-3
Form
Liquid
See origin →
Functions
Skin Conditioning
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
Emollient
Fills in the tiny cracks between skin cells to make everything feel smooth and soft. The "silky finish" ingredient.
Skin Protecting
Helps rebuild and strengthen your skin barrier — the invisible shield that keeps moisture in and irritants out. Essential after over-exfoliating or harsh weather.
Nourishes & Protects
Locks In Moisture
Traditional Use
A synthetic ester combining cetyl and stearyl alcohols with behenic acid (a fatty acid derived from plant oils like rapeseed). Developed as an emollient and thickening agent for cosmetic formulations.
Skin Types
all-skin-types, gentle
Best For
Dryness
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
1
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
ewg-1
medical-approval
pregnancy-nursing-safe
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR