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Moumoujus

CETETH-25.

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

A high-performance non-ionic surfactant and emulsifier derived from polyethylene glycol and cetyl alcohol. It serves as a structural backbone in skincare formulations, ensuring that oil and water components remain perfectly blended for consistent delivery of active ingredients.

Summary

cleansing emulsifying surfactant

Science

Mechanism of Action

It functions as an oil-in-water (O/W) emulsifier by bridging the surface tension between disparate phases. The molecule's hydrophilic polyethylene glycol chain attracts water while its lipophilic cetyl chain anchors into oils, creating stable microscopic droplets that allow for uniform product application and effective removal of surface impurities during cleansing.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 3–30%
Optimal

5%

Key findings

  1. 01 Clinical evaluations demonstrate that related Ceteth compounds are non-irritating to intact skin at a 3% concentration, establishing a baseline for skin-safe use.
  2. 02 Rabbit ocular studies using a 20% solution of Ceteth-25 and Oleth-25 showed zero irritation, confirming its safety profile for use near the eye area.
  3. 03 Safety assessments indicate that while concentrations up to 100% can cause dose-dependent irritation in related analogs, lower concentrations remain stable and non-sensitizing.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

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

As a functional emulsifier rather than a bioactive 'hero' ingredient, Ceteth-25 is rarely 'dusted.' Its presence is dictated by the formula's structural requirements; however, using it below 1% in a complex emulsion might suggest a failure to achieve long-term product stability.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 1.5 – 10
0 7 14

Stability

Exhibits exceptional stability across a wide pH spectrum and maintains performance in hard water conditions. Caution is advised in highly alkaline environments (pH > 10) where the ethoxylated chains may theoretically degrade.

Synergies

  • Oleth-25
  • Lipophilic emollients
  • Mineral UV filters

Conflicts

  • Strong oxidizing agents
  • Highly alkaline environments

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
30%
Pregnancy
Safe
Sensitization risk Low

While safe for general topical use, it should not be applied to severely damaged or burnt skin to avoid the potential systemic absorption of PEG-based components.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

An essential stabilizing agent that ensures the structural integrity and smooth texture of high-performance skincare emulsions.

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