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

CETEARETH-16.

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

A sophisticated non-ionic emulsifier that bridges the gap between oil and water phases to ensure formula uniformity. It is prized in precision skincare for creating stable, elegant textures that deliver active ingredients with a smooth, non-greasy finish.

Summary

Emulsifying Surfactant Cleansing Texture Enhancer

Science

Mechanism of Action

It acts as an oil-in-water (O/W) surfactant by reducing interfacial tension. The molecule features a lipophilic fatty alcohol tail that anchors into oil droplets and a hydrophilic polyethylene glycol chain that extends into the water, forming stable micelles that prevent phase separation.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 1.35–10%
Optimal

6%

Key findings

  1. 01 Confirmed to be a non-sensitizer in human repeat-insult patch testing (HRIPT) with minimal irritation potential.
  2. 02 Clinical safety evaluations identified only minimal irritation after single dermal exposure even at high concentrations.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

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

As a functional texture enhancer rather than a bioactive, Ceteareth-16 is rarely 'dusted.' However, concentrations below 1% in heavy creams may indicate insufficient stabilization or the use of a pre-blended base rather than a custom-engineered emulsion.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 3 – 11
0 7 14

Stability

Exhibits exceptional robustness across a broad pH spectrum and remains stable in electrolyte-rich environments.

Synergies

  • Fatty alcohols
  • Mineral UV filters
  • Electrolytes

Conflicts

  • Damaged skin barriers
  • Broken skin

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
6%
Pregnancy
Safe
Sensitization risk Low

Must be formulated to be non-irritating. Avoid application on compromised skin to prevent potential systemic absorption of PEG-based components. Purity standards require ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane levels below 1 ppm.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

An essential architectural component for achieving stable, high-performance emulsions with a refined skin feel, provided the skin barrier is intact.

Related

Similar Ingredients

Finding similar ingredients…