Cetyl Palmitate

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Cetyl Palmitate is a naturally derived ester formed by the reaction of cetyl alcohol and palmitic acid. It appears as a white to off-white waxy solid with a mild fatty odor. This compound is widely used in cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and industrial formulations for its emollient, thickening, and texture-enhancing properties. Cetyl Palmitate imparts a smooth, creamy feel to products and contributes to improved stability and consistency in creams, lotions, balms, and ointments. Its film-forming and skin-conditioning attributes make it a preferred ingredient in personal care products as well as in specialty industrial applications.

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Categories: Emollients, Thickeners Tags: Cetyl palmitate, Cosmetic ingredient, Emollient, Fatty ester, Hair conditioners, Personal care products, White to off-white waxy solid

Description

Table of Contents

Cetyl Palmitate

Primary Uses

Cosmetics & Personal Care

Functions as an emollient, thickener, and texture enhancer in creams, lotions, lipsticks, balms, and hair conditioners.
Provides a smooth, velvety feel and improves the spreadability of topical products.
Used as a stabilizer in oil-in-water emulsions to enhance consistency and shelf-life.
Acts as a film-forming agent providing a protective barrier on the skin.

Pharmaceuticals

Used as a base and thickening agent in ointments, creams, and salves, improving skin feel and stability.
Serves as an emollient in topical drug formulations for improved moisturizing and soothing effects.

Secondary Uses

Industrial Applications

Used in polishes, wax blends, and coatings to impart gloss and improve surface texture.
Acts as a lubricant and anti-static agent in certain plastics and textile applications.

Food Industry

Occasionally used in food packaging or coatings, subject to regulatory approval.

Research & Development

Utilized as an ingredient in experimental formulations for novel cosmetic or pharmaceutical products.

KEY PRODUCT FEATURES

1. Basic Identification Attributes

Chemical Name (IUPAC): Hexadecyl hexadecanoate
Common/Trade Name: Cetyl Palmitate
CAS Number: 540-10-3
HS Code: 2915.99.90
Molecular Formula: C32H64O2
Molecular Weight: 480.86 g/mol
Synonyms:
- Cetyl hexadecanoate
- Palmityl cetyl ester

2. Physical & Chemical Properties

Physical State: Solid waxy flakes or pastilles
Color & Odor: White to pale yellow; mild fatty odor
Melting Point: 45–50°C (113–122°F)
Boiling Point: Decomposes before boiling
Density: ~0.88 g/cm³ at 20°C
Solubility:
- Insoluble in water
- Soluble in oils, alcohol, chloroform
Flash Point: ~250°C (decomposition)
Stability: Stable under normal storage conditions

3. Safety & Hazard Attributes

Hazard Class (GHS): Not classified as hazardous
NFPA Ratings:
- Health: 0
- Flammability: 1
- Reactivity: 0
Exposure Limits: Not established
Toxicity: Low toxicity; generally recognized as safe in cosmetic and pharmaceutical use
Reactivity: Stable; may decompose at high temperatures

4. Storage & Handling Attributes

Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry place away from heat and ignition sources
Container Type: Sealed plastic or metal containers
Shelf Life: Up to 3 years if stored properly
Special Handling: Avoid dust and excessive heat; use PPE when handling bulk quantities

5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes

FDA Status: Approved for use in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals
REACH Status: Registered
Transportation: Not regulated as hazardous
Waste Disposal: Dispose in accordance with local environmental regulations

6. Environmental & Health Impact

Ecotoxicity: Low environmental impact; biodegradable
Persistence: Biodegradable
Bioaccumulation: Not expected to bioaccumulate
Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic or mutagenic
Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable

SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

Safety Handling Precautions

PPE: Gloves and protective eyewear recommended when handling in bulk
Handling: Avoid dust inhalation and skin contact with molten product
Storage: Keep containers tightly sealed and stored away from heat sources
Hygiene: Wash hands after handling; avoid ingestion and eye contact

First Aid Measures

Inhalation: Move to fresh air if dust inhaled; seek medical attention if breathing difficulties occur
Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water; seek medical advice if irritation develops
Eye Contact: Flush with water for 15 minutes; consult physician if irritation persists
Ingestion: Low toxicity; rinse mouth and seek medical advice if large amounts ingested

Firefighting Measures

Fire Hazards: Combustible; may release smoke and toxic fumes on burning
Extinguishing Media: Use foam, dry chemical powder, CO₂, or water spray
Special Precautions: Firefighters should wear protective gear and self-contained breathing apparatus
Decomposition Products: Carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, hydrocarbons