1-Heneicosanol finds its primary application in the field of organic synthesis and material science. It is often utilized as a long-chain fatty alcohol in the production of surfactants and emulsifiers, which are essential in formulating personal care products like creams, lotions, and hair care items. Its hydrophobic nature makes it suitable for creating water-resistant coatings and lubricants. Additionally, it serves as a precursor in the synthesis of wax esters, which are used in cosmetics and industrial applications. In research, it is employed as a standard or reference compound in chromatographic analysis due to its well-defined chemical properties. It can also be used in pharmaceutical formulations as a component in topical preparations to enhance drug absorption.