Cetearyl Octanoate
AKA “Hexadecyl 2-ethylhexanoate, Cetyl 2-ethylhexanoate, cetyl ethylhexanoate, HEXANOIC ACID, HEXADECYL ESTER, Cetearyl ethylhexanoate, EINECS 261-619-1”
Synthetic
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Ingredient Facts
Cetearyl octanoate
AKA: Hexadecyl 2-ethylhexanoate, Cetyl 2-ethylhexanoate, Cetyl ethylhexanoate, HEXANOIC ACID, HEXADECYL ESTER, Cetearyl ethylhexanoate, EINECS 261-619-1
Synthetic · Emollient | Skin Conditioning · EWG: 4
Synthetic
Emollient
Skin Conditioner
Plant Oil
Synthetic
Clean
The Panel concluded that the alkyl ethylhexanoates, listed below, are safe in the present practices of use and concentration described in the safety assessment when formulated to be non-irritating...Cetearyl Ethylhexanoate... Science: Origin: Botanic/Natural Safety Ratings: CIR: Safe as used
Formula
C24H48O2
Mol. Weight
368.60
CAS #
59130-69-7
Form
Oil
Synthetic
Botanical. Derived from coconut, palm kernel, or soybean oils as the primary starting materials. Synthesized through esterification of cetearyl alcohol with octanoic acid.
Function
Emollient | Skin Conditioning
Benefits
Emollient
Moisturizing
Antimicrobial
Strengthens Barrier
Hydrates and nourishes skin
Creates protective moisture barrier
Softens and conditions skin
Traditional Use
A synthetic ester combining cetyl and stearyl alcohols with caprylic acid. Developed as a light, non-greasy emollient for cosmetics and personal care products.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
Target
Dryness
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
Pregnancy Safe
Yes
EWG Score4
CIR Safety Findings
medical-approval, all-shades-safe, Not a Sensitizer
Concentration Guide
Industry Max
Industry typically uses up to 52.0% in leave-on products (6 products reported). Source: CIR Safety Assessment (CIR Seq 637).
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Feb 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR