Stearyl alcohol is a very effective stabilizer, thickening agent, and emulsifier, for making lotions, creams, shower gel, hair care products, lip balm and more. Stearyl Alcohol is a vegetable-based, refined fatty alcohol from from sustainable coconut oils. Compared to other fatty alcohols, like cetyl alcohol, in many formulations, stearyl alcohol will result in a product with a slightly softer, conditioned feel and a whiter appearance.