Cetyl Stearate

Cetyl Stearate molecular structurePubChem

adults • Skin contact product

Check for Different Age (6 available)

Is this safe for adults to use Cetyl Stearate?

✅
YES - Generally Safe
Danger Score: 1 (Lower is safer)
Quick Answer: Cetyl Stearate is generally considered safe for adults when used in topical products. Adults generally have higher tolerance.

ℹ️General Overview

For adults: cetyl stearate is commonly used in lotions and creams and is usually safe for normal skin. Some people can get irritation, so it is not risk-free for everyone.

✅What to Do

If you are an adult using a product with cetyl stearate: follow the product directions, avoid getting it in your eyes, do a small patch test on your inner forearm if you have sensitive skin, and avoid inhaling sprays or mists that contain it. Stop use if you get redness, burning, itching, or breathing trouble.

⚠️Warnings

There is moderate evidence from the Cosmetic Ingredient Review that cetyl stearate can irritate skin, eyes, or lungs in some people, and industry reviewers note limits on how much can be safely used in products. Environment Canada reviews do not show long-term buildup in the body or environment, but data gaps mean manufacturers sometimes limit concentrations. Watch for skin irritation, eye contact, or breathing problems and follow product warnings. If irritation occurs, rinse and stop using the product and see a healthcare provider if it does not get better.

Confidence: HIGH

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Safety Risk Labels

This ingredient has the following documented risks:

Irritant: A safety review by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review found strong evidence this ingredient can irritate skin, eyes, or lungs in people. That means it can cause redness, itching, rashes or eye or breathing irritation, especially on sensitive baby skin or with heavy use.
Environmental: Environment Canada flagged this chemical as an uncertain environmental toxin, meaning its effects on wildlife or ecosystems are not well known and there is concern it could be harmful to the environment.

Tap or hover over labels to see detailed risk information.

Alternative Names for Cetyl Stearate

This ingredient may also be listed as:

cetyl stearateOCTADECANOIC ACID, HEXADECYL ESTERHEXADECYL STEARATE1190-63-2HEXADECYL OCTADECANOATE, 1-HEXADECYLOCTADECANOATE, STEARIC ACID CETYL ESTER, OCTADECANOIC ACIDSTEARIC ACID, HEXADECYL ESTERPALMITYL STEARATEOCTADECANOIC ACID, 1-HEXADECYL ESTERN-HEXADECYL STEARATE1-HEXADECYLOCTADECANOATECETYL STEARATE

Always check ingredient labels carefully, as ingredients may be listed under different names.

Common Questions About Cetyl Stearate

Is this safe for adults to use Cetyl Stearate?

Yes, Cetyl Stearate is generally considered safe for adults based on current research.

What are the irritant risks of Cetyl Stearate for adults?

Can cause skin redness, itchiness, or rashes—especially on sensitive baby skin.

What are the environmental risks of Cetyl Stearate for adults?

Possible negative effects on the environment

What products contain Cetyl Stearate?

Cetyl Stearate is commonly found in skincare products, cosmetics, and topical applications. Always check ingredient labels before use.

When can adults using products with Cetyl Stearate?

The appropriate age depends on the specific ingredient properties and concentration. This analysis is for adults. Use the age selector above to check other ages.

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