Cetearyl Phosphate
AKA “EINECS 291-938-1, BOTANIMULSE CSP, EMPIPHOS TM, RefChem:575343, CETEARYL PHOSPHATE [INCI], PHOSPHORIC ACID, MONO-AND DI-C16-18-ALKYL ESTERS
Synthetic
Ingredient Facts
Cetearyl phosphate
AKA: EINECS 291-938-1, BOTANIMULSE CSP, EMPIPHOS TM, RefChem:575343, CETEARYL PHOSPHATE [INCI], PHOSPHORIC ACID, MONO-AND DI-C16-18-ALKYL ESTERS
Synthetic · Emollient · EWG: 1
Plant-Derived Synthetic
Emollient
Cleanser
Skin Conditioner
Plant Oil
Synthetic
Clean
Helps soften and hydrate skin while improving texture. Derived from natural plant sources.
Formula
C34H71O8P
Mol. Weight
638.90
CAS #
90506-73-3
Form
Powder
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.
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Locks in moisture
Traditional Use
A synthetic phosphate ester combining cetyl and stearyl alcohols with phosphoric acid. Created as an emulsifier and conditioning agent in modern cosmetic formulations.
Skin Types
all-skin-types, gentle
Best For
General
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
1
CIR
Safe w/Qualifications
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
ewg-1
medical-approval
pregnancy-nursing-safe
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Feb 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR