Cetostearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol that's a mixture of cetyl and stearyl alcohols. It's a white, waxy solid that's used in many cosmetics and personal care products: 

• Emulsifier: Helps prevent products from separating

• Opacifying agent: Contributes to the opacity of products

• Foam booster: Helps create foam

• Viscosity-increasing agent: Helps increase the viscosity of products

• Skin and hair softener: Helps soften skin and hair

• Conditioning agent: Helps condition hair and tackle frizziness

• Soothes skin: Soothes the skin when applied to the scalp and hair