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Moumoujus

CETETH-3 STEARATE.

Valuable / SKIN CONDITIONING

Ceteth-3 Stearate is a specialized non-ionic lipophilic emulsifier that bridges the gap between oil and water phases in advanced skincare formulations. By organizing into complex lamellar structures, it enhances the skin's barrier function while ensuring a smooth, elegant delivery of active ingredients.

Summary

Emulsifying agent Surfactant Skin conditioning emollient Texture enhancer

Science

Mechanism of Action

As a low-HLB surfactant (approx. 6-7), it reduces interfacial tension to stabilize emulsions. Beyond its structural role, it creates a breathable occlusive film on the stratum corneum, effectively sealing in moisture and reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL).

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 0.1–5%
Optimal

1.5%

Key findings

  1. 01 Clinical evaluations conducted by the CIR (2012) confirmed the ingredient is non-sensitizing and non-irritating within its standard 0.1-5% usage range.
  2. 02 Research published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science demonstrates that at 1.5%, this ingredient facilitates the formation of liquid crystalline phases which significantly improve skin hydration retention.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

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

While often used at low levels as a co-emulsifier, concentrations below 0.1% may indicate it is being used merely for label claims rather than structural emulsion stability.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH 4 – 7.5
0 7 14

Stability

Highly stable in standard conditions; however, being an ester, it may undergo hydrolysis if exposed to extreme pH levels.

Synergies

  • High-HLB emulsifiers (e.g., Ceteth-20)
  • Lipid-replenishing emollients
  • Lamellar-phase stabilizing agents

Conflicts

  • Strong oxidizing agents
  • Strongly acidic environments
  • Highly alkaline environments

Safety

Safety Profile

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

Ethoxylated ingredients must be purified to ensure 1,4-dioxane levels remain below 10 ppm; Moumoujus standards favor levels below 1 ppm for maximum safety.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

A reliable and gentle co-emulsifier that excels at creating the sophisticated lamellar structures necessary for superior skin hydration and ingredient delivery.

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