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.

Description

Cetyl Palmitate Uses

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.

PRODUCT KEY 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

 

  1. 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

 

  1. 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

 

  1. 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

 

  1. 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

 

  1. 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, COâ‚‚, or water spray

  • Special Precautions: Firefighters should wear protective gear and self-contained breathing apparatus

  • Decomposition Products: Carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, hydrocarbons