How does stearyl alcohol and cetyl alcohol work in shampoo and conditioners?

Answer 1

These alcohols. are used in shampoo and conditioners to improve the lubricant effect of the product.

*** Edit***

The above is true to some extent but not completely. The alcohol affects how the product looks and feels in your fingers, the same as silicone/dimethecone does.

But it also has another use. It is there to balance the pH of the product. If the alcohol was left out, the other ingredients in your shampoo would make a reasonably alkaline mixture, however your hair responds best to a slightly acidic bath. It makes the cuticle lie flatter, and dry better, so when used properly, it can make your hair more shiny, than if you used a product without it, and it can prevent too many snarls.

I hope this is helpful!

Answer 2

Stearyl alcohol and cetyl alcohol are fatty alcohols that act as conditioning agents in shampoos and conditioners. They help to soften and smooth the hair cuticle, making the hair appear shinier and feel softer. These alcohols also provide emollient properties, helping to improve the overall texture of the hair.