What Is Cetyl Acetyl Ricinoleate?
Cetyl Acetyl Ricinoleate is an ester created by joining cetyl alcohol with acetylated ricinoleic acid, a fatty acid most commonly obtained from castor oil. This pairing gives the ingredient a wax-like feel that melts easily at skin temperature, making it valuable for smooth, non-greasy textures. Interest in castor-derived esters began in the mid-20th century when formulators looked for plant-based alternatives to mineral oils and heavy petrolatum. Through transesterification, chemists react castor oil derivatives with cetyl alcohol, then add an acetyl group to improve stability and skin feel. The finished material is a pale, semi-solid wax often supplied in flakes or pellets.
You will find Cetyl Acetyl Ricinoleate in moisturizers, lip balms, creamy foundations, solid fragrance sticks, sun care products, hair conditioning creams and anti-aging serums that aim for a plush after-feel without clogging pores.
Cetyl Acetyl Ricinoleate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient earns its place in formulas thanks to the way it softens and smooths the skin.
- Skin Conditioning: Forms a light, flexible film on the surface that traps moisture, leaving skin feeling supple and comfortable.
- Emollient: Fills in microscopic gaps between skin cells, easing roughness and delivering a silky slip that helps creams and sticks glide on effortlessly.
Who Can Use Cetyl Acetyl Ricinoleate
Cetyl Acetyl Ricinoleate is generally well suited for normal, dry and combination skin types because its light waxy texture locks in water without feeling heavy. Oily or very acne-prone skin can usually tolerate it too since it sits on the lower end of the comedogenic scale, but people who break out easily may prefer lighter fluids if they notice congestion.
The ingredient is plant derived, so it fits vegan and vegetarian lifestyles as long as the final product formula is free of animal-based additives.
No data suggest that topical use poses a risk during pregnancy or breastfeeding; still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should clear all personal care products with a healthcare professional first.
Cetyl Acetyl Ricinoleate does not absorb UV light and is not known to cause photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more vulnerable to sunburn.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to any cosmetic ingredient can vary person to person. The effects listed below are only potential issues and most people will not run into them when products are made and used as directed.
- Mild skin irritation
- Redness or itching linked to sensitivity to castor-derived materials
- Clogged pores in individuals highly prone to comedones
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis
If irritation or any other unwanted reaction occurs, stop using the product and consult a medical professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5. Cetyl Acetyl Ricinoleate is a lightweight wax ester that spreads thinly and does not build up in pores the way heavier oils can, so it earns a low score. Its molecular structure is bulky enough to stay on the surface yet not so occlusive that it traps excess sebum or debris. Most users with acne-prone or combination skin tolerate it without new breakouts, though exceptionally sensitive or reactive skin may still prefer ultra-light textures.
No publicly available studies flag it as a high-risk pore blocker, and manufacturers often market it for non-greasy formulas aimed at blemish-prone consumers.
Summary
Cetyl Acetyl Ricinoleate works as a skin-conditioning emollient, smoothing rough patches and locking in water by forming a flexible moisture barrier. Its castor-derived fatty acid backbone and added acetyl group give it a silky, non-sticky feel that helps creams, balms and sticks glide on easily while leaving a soft finish.
The ingredient is a niche but steady performer rather than a headline star. It shows up in well-formulated moisturizers, color cosmetics and sun care where chemists want plant-based slip without heaviness, yet it is not as famous as shea butter or squalane.
Safety profiles rate it as low risk with rare reports of irritation or allergy. As with any new skincare ingredient it is wise to do a quick patch test before full use, especially if you have sensitive or reactive skin.