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Moumoujus

CETETH-10.

Valuable CAS 9004-95-9 / 14529-40-9 / SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

A versatile non-ionic ether derived from cetyl alcohol and ethylene oxide, serving as a foundational stabilizer in sophisticated skincare textures. It is primarily utilized to bridge the gap between oil and water phases, ensuring uniform delivery of active ingredients in moisturizing systems.

Summary

Emulsifying Surfactant Cleansing Agent Solubilizer

Science

Mechanism of Action

As an oil-in-water (O/W) emulsifier with an HLB value of 13.5, Ceteth-10 reduces interfacial tension to create stable, homogeneous dispersions. Its molecular structure allows it to bind water-insoluble oils into aqueous bases while simultaneously acting as a mild surfactant that facilitates the removal of surface lipids and impurities.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 0.1–5%
Optimal

3%

Key findings

  1. 01 Safety assessments indicate that while concentrations up to 100% exhibit dose-dependent irritation, levels up to 3% are confirmed to be non-irritating on intact skin.
  2. 02 Comparative group studies on related ceteareth ethers demonstrate significant irritancy potential specifically on abraded or damaged skin barriers at 2.5% concentration.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

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

As a functional emulsifier rather than a primary active, it is rarely 'dusted' for marketing claims; however, its presence at very low levels (<0.1%) in complex emulsions may indicate a secondary stabilizer role rather than the primary emulsification system.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 5 – 7
0 7 14

Stability

Possesses excellent chemical stability across a broad pH spectrum due to its robust ether linkage. It exhibits a specific cloud point between 72-76°C in aqueous solutions.

Synergies

  • Cetyl Alcohol
  • Glycerin
  • Non-polar emollient oils

Conflicts

  • High-ethanol formulations
  • Compromised or abraded skin barriers

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
5%
Pregnancy
Safe
Sensitization risk Low

Caution is advised for use on damaged or burned skin due to the theoretical risk of nephrotoxicity linked to polyethylene glycol (PEG) absorption through an impaired barrier.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

An effective and stable emulsifying agent that is excellent for dry and normal skin types, though its moderate comedogenicity suggests caution for acne-prone individuals.

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