Cetyl Behenate
What Cetyl Behenate is & what it does
Cetyl Behenate is a wax ester formed from cetyl alcohol and behenic acid. In cosmetic and sunscreen formulas it acts as an emollient and texture agent, helping to thicken, stabilize, and give body to creams and sticks. As a wax-like material it can contribute to a smooth, structured feel in balms and stick products.
What does Cetyl Behenate do in skincare?
Cetyl Behenate is a wax ester used as an emollient and texture agent. In creams, balms, and sunscreen sticks it helps thicken and stabilize the formula and gives products body and a smooth feel. It is a structuring ingredient rather than an active.
Is Cetyl Behenate comedogenic?
As a wax-like ester, Cetyl Behenate may have some pore-clogging potential for certain people, but clear ratings are limited and reactions vary individually. Those prone to breakouts may prefer to patch test products that contain it.
Is Cetyl Behenate natural or synthetic?
It is typically synthesized from cetyl alcohol and behenic acid. The starting materials can come from plant sources, but the finished ester is a processed ingredient rather than a direct natural wax.
Sunscreens with Cetyl Behenate
We rate 5 sunscreens that contain it:
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L300 Hyaluronic Renewal Day Cream SPF 15
86/100
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L300 CC Cream 7-in-1 Face Cream SPF 15
83/100
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Supergoop! Play Everyday Lotion Spf 50 With Sunflower Extract
68/100
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Supergoop! Play Everyday Lotion Spf 50
68/100
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fmarie&co. Daily Sunveil SPF 50+
65/100