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Moumoujus

CETETH-30.

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

A high-performance non-ionic polyethylene glycol ether of cetyl alcohol that serves as a sophisticated emulsifier and solubilizer. It is essential for creating stable, elegant textures in precision skincare, particularly in oil-in-water systems where it ensures a uniform distribution of active ingredients.

Summary

Emulsifying Surfactant Solubilizing Cleansing

Science

Mechanism of Action

Ceteth-30 operates by significantly lowering interfacial tension between aqueous and lipid phases, boasting a high Hydrophilic-Lipophilic Balance (HLB) of 15–17. Beyond its structural role, it acts as a penetration enhancer by momentarily fluidizing the skin's lipid bilayers, which facilitates the deeper diffusion of water-soluble actives into the stratum corneum.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 1–5%
Optimal

3%

Key findings

  1. 01 Established as the maximum safe concentration for leave-on applications by the CIR Expert Panel.
  2. 02 Clinical evaluations demonstrate no irritation on intact skin at this concentration, confirming a favorable safety profile compared to lower-molecular-weight ceteth variants.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

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

As a functional emulsifier, Ceteth-30 is typically used at levels between 1% and 5% to maintain formula integrity; concentrations significantly below 1% in emulsions may suggest its inclusion for marketing purposes or as a secondary solubilizer rather than a primary structural component.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 4.5 – 7.5
0 7 14

Stability

Maintains chemical stability within standard physiological pH ranges but is vulnerable to hydrolytic degradation in extreme acidic or basic environments. Susceptible to oxidation if exposed to prolonged heat or light.

Synergies

  • Lipophilic actives
  • Essential oils
  • Fragrance compounds

Conflicts

  • Strong oxidizing agents
  • Strong acids
  • Strong bases

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
4.4%
Pregnancy
Safe
Sensitization risk Low

Contraindicated for use on severely damaged or burned skin due to potential nephrotoxicity associated with PEG absorption in compromised barriers. Purity must be monitored for 1,4-dioxane levels (<1 ppm).

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

A highly reliable structural ingredient that ensures formula stability and enhances the delivery of active compounds without compromising skin tolerability.

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