Cetyl Glycol
AKA “1, 2-Hexadecanediol, 6920-24-7, 1H07JK4G0C, NSC-71525, CHEBI:75586, DTXSID60884343, RefChem:72092, DTXCID801023790, 230-030-1
Emollient
Ingredient Facts
Cetyl glycol
AKA: 1, 2-Hexadecanediol, 6920-24-7, 1H07JK4G0C, NSC-71525, CHEBI:75586, DTXSID60884343, RefChem:72092, DTXCID801023790, 230-030-1
Emollient · Emollient · EWG: 4
Synthetic
Emollient
Skin Conditioner
Hair Care
Not Clean
1,2-hexadecanediol is a glycol that is hexadecane which is substituted by hydroxy groups at positions 1 and 2. It derives from a hydride of a hexadecane.
Formula
C16H34O2
Mol. Weight
258.44
CAS #
6920-24-7
Form
Powder
State
White solid; Slightly soluble in water; [MSDSonline]
See origin →
Functions
Hair Conditioning
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
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.
Viscosity Controlling
Locks In Moisture
Traditional Use
A synthetic compound created in modern cosmetic chemistry as a humectant and viscosity modifier. Developed to improve product texture and skin hydration in contemporary formulations.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
Dehydration
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Potential Sensitizer
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR