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Moumoujus

CETEARETH-60.

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

A high-performance polyether and non-ionic surfactant primarily utilized as a sophisticated rheology modifier. It is essential for creating crystal-clear aqueous gels and stabilizing oil-in-water emulsions without compromising foam quality or sensory appeal.

Summary

Surfactant Cleansing Agent Emulsifier Viscosity Modifier

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient functions as a Newtonian associative thickener, building a structural network within water-based systems. By interacting with other surfactants, it increases viscosity and modifies flow behavior, ensuring that skincare formulations maintain a stable, uniform texture and optimal distribution of active ingredients.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 0.5–4%
Optimal

2%

Key findings

  1. 01 A 21-day human cumulative irritation study on 23 subjects confirmed that even at 50-100% concentrations, the ingredient exhibits only mild irritation potential.
  2. 02 Repeated application tests over 28 days at a 10% concentration demonstrated the polymer to be non-irritating to the skin.
  3. 03 A guinea pig maximization test (Buehler method) at 50% concentration identified the ingredient as a non-sensitizer.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

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

As a functional texture enhancer, Ceteareth-60 is rarely 'dusted' for marketing; however, concentrations below 0.5% may be insufficient to provide the intended viscosity-controlling benefits in most surfactant systems.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 2 – 12
0 7 14

Stability

Exhibits exceptional hydrolytic stability across a broad pH spectrum and remains stable under standard processing heat, though sustained temperatures exceeding 80°C should be avoided.

Synergies

  • Sodium Chloride
  • Anionic Surfactants
  • Amphoteric Surfactants

Conflicts

  • Broken or severely damaged skin
  • Nitrosating agents

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
4%
Pregnancy
Safe
Sensitization risk Low

While safe for general use, it is contraindicated for application on damaged or burnt skin due to historical data regarding PEG-related kidney effects in clinical environments. High-purity sourcing is required to maintain ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane levels below 1 ppm.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

A highly stable and skin-friendly rheology modifier that enables the creation of elegant, clear, and high-viscosity formulations without the typical irritation associated with heavy surfactants.

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References

Sources