Get a Free 5ml Mini Now Free 5ml Mini With Every Order of The Mantle

C8-10 ALKYL ETHYL PHOSPHATE.

Valuable CAS 68412-60-2 / VISCOSITY CONTROLLING

A sophisticated anionic emulsifier and surfactant engineered to stabilize complex skincare systems while facilitating the delivery of active ingredients. By reducing interfacial tension, it ensures uniform texture and enhances the penetration of lipophilic compounds into the skin's deeper layers.

Anionic Surfactant Emulsifying Agent Penetration Enhancer Viscosity Modifier

Science

This ingredient functions as a phosphate ester that interacts with the lipid bilayers of the stratum corneum. It temporarily modifies the skin's barrier permeability, acting as a chemical penetration enhancer to increase the flux of co-formulated actives while simultaneously serving as a primary or secondary emulsifier.


Research

High confidence
Effective range 0.1–10%
Optimal

5%

Key findings

  1. 01 Evaluated by the CIR as part of a 28-member alkyl phosphate group, confirming its efficacy as an anionic penetration enhancer within the 0.1-5% range.
  2. 02 Pharmaceutical data indicates that concentrations up to 10% significantly improve the solubility and stability of poorly water-soluble active molecules.

Transparency

Not commonly dusted
Min. effective
0.5%
Red flag below
0.1%

Because it functions as a penetration enhancer, using it below 0.5% may fail to provide significant delivery benefits, though it may still assist with emulsion stability at lower levels.


The Formula

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 4 – 6.5
0 7 14

Stability

Exhibits robust stability in both polar and non-polar environments; particularly effective at stabilizing high Krafft temperature systems and enhancing viscosity in gels.

Synergies

  • Poorly water-soluble actives
  • Mineral UV filters
  • Lipid-based delivery systems

Conflicts

  • Cationic surfactants
  • Polyquaterniums
  • High concentrations of strong electrolytes

Safety

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
8.3%
Pregnancy
Safe
Sensitization risk Low

The 8.3% limit is extrapolated from related alkyl phosphates (Potassium Cetyl Phosphate); it is considered safe when formulated to be non-irritating.


Your Skin

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Valuable

An essential formulation tool for precision skincare that requires both structural stability and enhanced delivery of active ingredients.


Related

Finding similar ingredients…