What is Cetyl Alcohol?

So I was in Boots the chemist today when I spotted some Ultra  Moisturising Conditioner, (Boots Botanics Brand) as it was reduced in price I thought I would try it. So I scanned the ingredients and came across an ingredient called Cetyl Alcohol! What! alcohol is bad for your hair right?

But the added rice bran protein and honey will soften my hair and cancel out the drying affects of alcohol?

I was not a happy bunny, so I googled Cetyl Alcohol and this is what I found;

Cetyl alcohol is a lubricant and thickening agent used in a variety of products. Also referred to as palmityl alcohol, it is a synthetic fatty substance made from oils that reduces the surface tension of a liquid. It is most commonly found in shampoos and conditioners, since it can make hair feel smooth and soft. It's also used to thicken lotions and other cosmetics, as well as for lubricating industrial machine parts, like bolts and fasteners. (1)

So its a lubricating agent for machine parts! Right glad I cleared that one up!

 It is made out of coconut and palm oils and has nothing to do with Alcohol in the conventional sense. I will also make your hair soft and not dry, so Cetyl Alcohol is ok to use in hair products.