Cetyl Palmitate
Cetyl Palmitate is known as emollient, emulsifying agent, emulsion stabilizing agent, stiffening agent, viscosity-increasing agent. This product is available in Arvin Kala’s diverse product portfolio.
Description
The USP 40-NF 35 S1 defines cetyl palmitate as comprising esters of cetyl alcohol and high-molecular-weight saturated fatty acids, mainly palmitic acid. According to PhEur 9.2, cetyl palmitate is a blend of esters from C14-C18 alcohols with lauric (dodecanoic), myristic (tetradecanoic), palmitic (hexadecanoic), and stearic (octadecanoic) acids, known as ‘cetyl esters wax’. Cetyl palmitate appears as white or nearly white waxy plates, flakes, or powder.
Applications in Pharmaceutical Formulation or Technology
Cetyl palmitate serves as an emollient in topical products. Additionally, it functions as an emulsion stabilizer in shampoos, and acts as an emulsifier and viscosity enhancer in various lotions and creams. It also contributes to the texture and body of numerous personal care and cosmetic items, such as sunscreens and anti-aging treatments.
Stability and Storage Conditions
Cetyl palmitate should be kept in tightly sealed containers in a cool, dry environment, away from direct sunlight and strong odors. It is important to avoid exposing it to excessive heat.
Method of Manufacture
Cetyl palmitate is an ester formed by the reaction of cetyl alcohol and palmitic acid, a fatty acid naturally present in both plants and animals. When derived from plants, cetyl esters can be used in cosmetics and personal care products sold in Europe, in accordance with the EU Cosmetics Directive. If the components are sourced from animals, they must adhere to the EU’s animal by-products regulations. Cetyl palmitate is also a primary component of spermaceti, a wax obtained from sperm whale oil. Historically, spermaceti was extracted from sperm whale oil using caustic alkali under pressure, followed by crystallization at 6°C. However, the Endangered Species Act of 1973 in the US prohibited the killing of whales and the use of materials derived from them.

Safety

Cetyl palmitate, a wax ester of palmitic acid, is commonly used in cosmetic and personal care products. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has evaluated this ingredient and determined it to be nontoxic and nonsensitizing, considering it safe for use in cosmetic formulations under current usage practices and concentrations.

Although it can cause slight irritation to the eyes and skin, human skin tests of moisturizers containing 2.5% to 2.7% cetyl palmitate showed minimal irritation and no systemic toxicity or photosensitization. Some palmitates have been reported to cause contact dermatitis. Cetyl palmitate may also irritate the respiratory and digestive tracts.

Handling Precautions

Take standard precautions based on the specific circumstances and amount of cetyl palmitate being handled. This substance can be combustible at high temperatures. It is advisable to use protective clothing, gloves, and safety goggles. Additionally, appropriate respiratory equipment should be worn.

Typical Properties

Boiling point 360-534°C 

Density 0.989 g/cm³  

Flash point >238°C for Hallstar 653 (closed cup); (4) 269.8°C 

Iodine value 0.5 for Hallstar 653 

Melting point 43-56°C; 

Chemical-physical values

Test Item Unit Specification
IODINE VALUE

gI2/100g

NMT 2.0
NICKEL
mg KOH/g
NMT 1.0
WATER CONTENT
%
NMT 0.3
TOTAL ASH
%
NMT 0.2
Test Item Unit Specification
APPEARANCE (COLOUR)
WHITE
APPEARANCE (FORM)
WAXY SOLID
ACID VALUE
mg KOH/g
NMT 4.0
HYDROXYL VALUE
mg KOH/g
NMT 20.0

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