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CETOLETH-4.

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

A versatile non-ionic ether that serves as a high-performance emulsifier and surface-tension reducer. It is prized in precision skincare for its ability to create uniform, stable textures while simultaneously improving the absorption of more complex active molecules.

Emulsifying Surfactant Cleansing Penetration enhancer

Science

Cetoleth-4 acts as a bridge between oil and water phases to maintain product homogeneity. On the skin, it functions as a penetration enhancer by momentarily reorganizing the lipid structure of the stratum corneum, facilitating deeper delivery of co-formulated nutrients.


Research

High confidence
Effective range 0.5–5%
Optimal

5%

Key findings

  1. 01 Safety evaluations by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) confirm that concentrations up to 5% are non-sensitizing and non-irritating in leave-on applications.
  2. 02 Studies published in the International Journal of Toxicology indicate that while pure forms can be reactive, typical cosmetic dilutions show no evidence of being primary irritants.

Transparency

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

As a functional emulsifier, it is rarely 'dusted' for marketing purposes; its presence is usually strictly tied to the structural integrity and delivery efficiency of the formula.


The Formula

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 3 – 11
0 7 14

Stability

Exhibits exceptional resilience across a broad pH spectrum and maintains performance in hard water environments. Highly resistant to oxidative degradation.

Synergies

  • Active molecules requiring enhanced skin penetration
  • Lipid-heavy emollient systems

Conflicts

  • Strong oxidizing agents
  • Specific ratios of anionic surfactants
  • Extremely acidic environments over long durations

Safety

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

Quality control is essential to ensure residual levels of 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide remain below 1-10 ppm.


Your Skin

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
No Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Moderate

Our Assessment

Valuable

A dependable formulation stabilizer and delivery aid best suited for dry and normal skin types requiring enhanced active ingredient absorption.


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