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CETETH-150.

Valuable CAS 9004-95-9 / CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - CLEANSING

Ceteth-150 is a high-molecular-weight, non-ionic polyoxyethylene ether of cetyl alcohol that serves as a high-performance emulsifier and texture enhancer. Its large molecular structure ensures it remains on the skin's surface to stabilize complex formulations without the irritation potential often associated with smaller surfactant molecules.

surfactant cleansing agent emulsifier viscosity controller

Science

As a hydrophilic (high HLB) surfactant, Ceteth-150 reduces surface tension to bridge the gap between oil and water phases. It creates a robust interfacial barrier around oil droplets to prevent coalescence, ensuring a uniform distribution of active ingredients and a smooth, consistent product texture.


Research

High confidence
Effective range 0.1–10%
Optimal

5%

Key findings

  1. 01 Determined to be safe in current practices; high molecular weight limits skin penetration, enhancing the safety profile compared to lower-chain analogs.
  2. 02 Clinical data indicates that irritation potential inversely correlates with the number of ethylene oxide units, making the 150-unit chain significantly milder than Ceteth-2 or Ceteth-10.

Transparency

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

Because it is a functional emulsifier rather than a primary 'active' ingredient, it is not typically used for marketing claims; however, concentrations below 0.5% may indicate it is used purely for viscosity control rather than emulsion stabilization.


The Formula

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 3 – 11.5
0 7 14

Stability

Exhibits exceptional stability across a wide pH range, making it ideal for everything from acidic exfoliants to alkaline treatments. It also acts as a rheology modifier to control product thickness.

Synergies

  • AHA/BHA acids
  • Non-polar oils
  • Hydrophilic actives

Conflicts

  • High electrolyte environments
  • Strong oxidizing agents

Safety

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

Safe for use when formulated to be non-irritating. Purity standards are maintained by monitoring for 1,4-dioxane residuals, which are capped at 1 ppm in finished products.


Your Skin

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

Our Assessment

Valuable

An exceptionally mild and stable emulsifier that ensures product integrity and texture without compromising the skin barrier.


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