Hydroxycetyl Isostearate
AKA “RefChem:789456, SCHEMBL29361898”
Surfactant
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Ingredient Facts
Hydroxycetyl isostearate
AKA: RefChem:789456, SCHEMBL29361898
Surfactant · Emollient · EWG: 4
Plant-Derived
Emollient
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Skin Conditioner
Not Clean
Isooctadecanoic acid, 2-hydroxyhexadecyl ester
Formula
C34H68O3
Mol. Weight
524.90
Form
Wax
See origin →
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
Traditional Use
A synthetic ester developed in the mid-20th century for use as an emollient and skin protectant in cosmetics. No traditional use; it was created to provide improved texture and spreadability in modern formulations.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
Dryness
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR