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Moumoujus

CETEARETH-13.

Valuable CAS 68439-49-6 / SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

Ceteareth-13 is a high-performance non-ionic emulsifier derived from cetearyl alcohol, specifically engineered to stabilize oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions. It serves as a structural mediator that ensures formula uniformity and enhances the spreadability of complex cosmetic textures.

Summary

Emulsifying Surfactant Cleansing Stabilizing

Science

Mechanism of Action

As a non-ionic surfactant, Ceteareth-13 reduces the interfacial tension between oil and water phases. Its molecular structure features a hydrophobic alkyl tail (C16-C18) that anchors into the oil and a 13-unit hydrophilic polyoxyethylene chain that extends into the water, providing steric stabilization. This prevents droplet coalescence and helps solubilize hydrophobic active ingredients for more uniform distribution.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 1–10%
Optimal

3.5%

Key findings

  1. 01 Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) - Final Report on the Safety Assessment of Ceteareths (IJT 18(S3):41-49, 1999)
  2. 02 Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) - Concentration of Use Data

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted
Min. effective
1%
Red flag below
0.5%

As a functional emulsifier, Ceteareth-13 is rarely 'dusted' for marketing purposes; its inclusion is typically dictated by the structural requirements of the emulsion. Usage below 1.0% in primary emulsions may indicate insufficient concentration for long-term physical stability.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 3 – 8
0 7 14

Stability

Highly resilient across a broad pH spectrum and compatible with electrolytes and UV filters. It functions as a protective colloid and is ideal for hot-process emulsification.

Synergies

  • UV filters
  • Hydrophobic actives
  • Electrolytes

Conflicts

  • Strong oxidizing agents

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
10%
Pregnancy
Safe
Sensitization risk Low

Manufacturers must utilize vacuum stripping to eliminate potential trace impurities like 1,4-dioxane (limited to <1 ppm) and ethylene oxide.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Moderate

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

An essential functional stabilizer that ensures the integrity and sensorial delivery of oil-and-water skincare systems.

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