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Moumoujus

CETOLETH-18.

Valuable CAS 68155-01-1 / SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

Cetoleth-18 is a high-performance, non-ionic emulsifier and surfactant derived from fatty alcohols. It serves as a structural architect in skincare, ensuring that oil-and-water-based actives remain perfectly blended into a stable, aesthetically elegant texture.

Summary

Surfactant Emulsifying agent Solubilizer Cleansing agent

Science

Mechanism of Action

By reducing the interfacial tension between incompatible phases, Cetoleth-18 enables the formation of stable oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions. Its high degree of ethoxylation gives it a high Hydrophilic-Lipophilic Balance (HLB) value, making it exceptionally effective at solubilizing essential oils and stabilizing complex formulations across various viscosities.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 0.1–10%
Optimal

5%

Key findings

  1. 01 Cosmetic Ingredient Review (2012) safety assessment confirms that alkyl PEG ethers like Cetoleth-18 are non-sensitizing and safe within standard cosmetic use concentrations.
  2. 02 Research indicates that while pure concentrations (100%) can be irritants, diluted formulations are characterized by high skin tolerance.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted
Min. effective
0.1%
Red flag below
0.05%

As a functional emulsifier rather than a primary active, Cetoleth-18 is rarely 'dusted' for marketing purposes. It is typically included at the precise levels required to achieve formula stability.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 3 – 11
0 7 14

Stability

Exhibits robust stability across an exceptionally wide pH range and remains effective in the presence of hard water or electrolytes.

Synergies

  • Anionic surfactants
  • Cationic surfactants
  • Essential oils

Conflicts

  • None significant

Safety

Safety Profile

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

Manufacturers monitor for 1,4-dioxane byproducts to ensure levels remain 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 highly stable and skin-compatible emulsifier that ensures uniform delivery of active ingredients in complex formulations.

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References

Sources