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Moumoujus

CETEARETH-2 PHOSPHATE.

Valuable CAS 106233-09-4 / CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - CLEANSING

An advanced anionic emulsifying agent and skin-mimetic surfactant derived from cetearyl alcohol and phosphoric acid. It is prized in precision skincare for its ability to stabilize complex lamellar structures that mirror the skin's natural lipid organization.

Summary

Emulsifying Surfactant Texture Enhancer Barrier Support

Science

Mechanism of Action

It functions by lowering interfacial tension to facilitate stable oil-in-water emulsions. Crucially, it organizes into 'alpha-gel' lamellar liquid crystal networks; these structures act as a moisture reservoir on the stratum corneum, providing a controlled, time-release hydration effect while enhancing the penetration of co-formulated active ingredients.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 0.5–5%
Optimal

3%

Key findings

  1. 01 Concentrations between 0.5% and 5.0% are clinically validated for stabilizing lamellar phases in topical applications (Croda Technical Data).
  2. 02 Read-across HRIPT studies on related alkyl phosphates at 5% concentration demonstrated no irritation or sensitization across 49 subjects (CIR 2014).
  3. 03 Large-scale clinical safety testing (n=108) of 1% Dicetyl Phosphate showed zero sensitization potential, confirming the high cutaneous tolerance of this chemical class.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

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

Because this ingredient is fundamental to the structural integrity of the emulsion (the alpha-gel), it is rarely 'dusted.' If present at levels below 0.1%, it is likely not serving a functional emulsifying purpose.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 4 – 9
0 7 14

Stability

Highly resilient in high-electrolyte environments and salt-rich formulas. While oil-soluble in its acid form, it becomes water-compatible upon in-situ neutralization with alkaline agents like Sodium Hydroxide.

Synergies

  • Cetearyl Alcohol
  • Mineral UV Filters (SPF boosting)
  • Electrolytes

Conflicts

  • Cationic surfactants
  • Polyvalent metal ions
  • Environments with pH below 3.0

Safety

Safety Profile

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

Safe for leave-on skincare up to 5% typically, with a maximum safety ceiling of 8.3% based on related phosphate esters. Manufacturing standards require 1,4-dioxane levels to be strictly monitored below 1 ppm.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

A high-performance technical ingredient that bridges the gap between emulsion stability and advanced barrier-mimicking hydration.

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References

Sources