Cetyl Tallowate
AKA “Cetyl Tallowate
Synthetic
Ingredient Facts
Cetyl tallowate
Synthetic · Emollient · EWG: 4
Synthetic
Emollient
Skin Conditioner
Synthetic
Clean
Cetyl Tallowate is the ester of Cetyl Alcohol and Tallow Acid Science: Functions: Skin Conditioning Safety Ratings: CIR: Safe as used
CAS #
-
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.
Locks in moisture
Traditional Use
A historical cosmetic ingredient created by esterifying cetyl alcohol with tallow (beef fat). Used before the widespread adoption of plant-derived alternatives to provide emollience and texture in creams and lotions.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
Dryness
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
4
CIR
Safe
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Feb 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR