Cetearyl Behenate
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Cetearyl Ester, Cetearyl Behenic Acid Ester
Plant-Derived
Emollient
Skin Conditioner
Barrier Support
Plant Oil
Clean
Docosanoic acid, C16-18 alkyl ester
CAS #
246159-35-3
Form
Liquid
Functions
Skin Conditioning
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
Emollient
Fills in the tiny cracks between skin cells to make everything feel smooth and soft. The "silky finish" ingredient.
Skin Protecting
Helps rebuild and strengthen your skin barrier — the invisible shield that keeps moisture in and irritants out. Essential after over-exfoliating or harsh weather.
Nourishes & Protects
Locks In Moisture
Traditional Use
A synthetic ester combining cetyl and stearyl alcohols with behenic acid (a fatty acid derived from plant oils like rapeseed). Developed as an emollient and thickening agent for cosmetic formulations.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types, gentle
Best For
Dryness
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewednone on file
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed2 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR