Glycol Cetearate
A waxy emollient ester. It softens skin and gives the formula body and a pearly look. Well tolerated.
Evidence by route
Topical application
A functional emollient. Safe.
- CIR Cosmetic Ingredient Review safety assessment
How to read tiers A–F
- BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Glycol Cetearate is a waxy ester of glycol and fatty alcohols (cetyl and stearyl). In cosmetics it acts as an emollient and pearlising agent: it softens skin, gives the formula body and brings that pearly look typical of creams and shower gels. This is a functional formula component, not a skincare active. Its job is texture, feel and the pearly visual effect, not treating skin. As an emollient it forms a soft layer that slightly cuts water loss, a real but modest benefit. On its own it corrects nothing. Applied topically it has no systemic relevance, so it can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Tolerability is good, with low irritation and allergy potential. Comedogenicity is mild (2 of 5): no problem for most skin, but on very oily or acne-prone skin it is worth noting when present at a high level.
Frequently asked questions
Is Glycol Cetearate safe during pregnancy?
Glycol Cetearate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Glycol Cetearate for?
Glycol Cetearate suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Glycol Cetearate and what does it do in cosmetics?
A waxy emollient ester.
Is Glycol Cetearate comedogenic?
On the Fulton scale 2/5 – low comedogenicity. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
What's the INCI name for Glycol Cetearate?
The INCI name is Glycol Cetearate.
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Glycol Palmitate, Glycol Stearate, Glycoproteins, Gossypium Herbaceum Seed Oil, Kappaphycus Alvarezii Extract, Polyquaternium-22, Vigna Aconitifolia Seed Extract, Cetearyl Ethylhexanoate
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