Hydroxycetyl Isostearate

Hydroxycetyl Isostearate 1
molecular structure · PubChem CID 129628069
Plant-Derived
Emollient
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Skin Conditioner
Not Clean
OriginDerived from plant-based fatty acids and isostearic acid, typically sourced from vegetable oils. Synthesized through esterification of cetyl alcohol with isostearic acid under controlled conditions.
Isooctadecanoic acid, 2-hydroxyhexadecyl ester
Formula
C34H68O3
Mol. Weight
524.90
Form
Wax
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
Dryness
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
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.
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Locks In Moisture
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.
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
Concentration Guide
CIR lists it as not reported to be in use.
CIR · report published 2015
Regulatory Status
USA✔ permitted
EU⚠ restricted
JAPAN⚠ restricted
CANADA⚠ restricted
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR