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CETOLETH-6.

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

A high-performance non-ionic surfactant and polyether derived from cetyl and oleyl alcohols, designed to bridge the gap between oil and water phases. It is primarily utilized in precision skincare to ensure formula stability while simultaneously providing emollient benefits that enhance the skin's tactile finish.

Surfactant Emulsifying Agent Skin-Conditioning Emollient Cleansing Agent

Science

Functioning through its amphiphilic structure, Cetoleth-6 reduces interfacial tension with a Hydrophilic-Lipophilic Balance (HLB) of approximately 10-11. This specific balance allows it to stabilize oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions effectively, while its fatty alcohol backbone acts as a skin-conditioning agent to improve product spreadability and skin softness.


Research

High confidence
Effective range 0.5–10%
Optimal

5%

Key findings

  1. 01 Clinical evaluations of the alkyl PEG ether family at concentrations up to 10% demonstrated negligible to slight dermal irritation in occlusive patch testing, confirming high biocompatibility.

Transparency

Not commonly dusted
Min. effective
0.5%

As a functional emulsifier and surfactant, Cetoleth-6 is rarely included for marketing claims; it is typically used at functional levels necessary to maintain emulsion integrity.


The Formula

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 3 – 11
0 7 14

Stability

Exhibits exceptional stability across a broad pH spectrum and maintains performance in the presence of electrolytes or inorganic salts.

Synergies

  • Anionic surfactants
  • Cationic surfactants
  • Non-ionic surfactants

Conflicts

  • Strong oxidizing agents
  • Strong reducing agents

Safety

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

Safety is contingent on purification processes (vacuum stripping) to ensure 1,4-dioxane levels remain below 10 ppm, a standard practice in medical-grade skincare manufacturing.


Your Skin

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

Our Assessment

Valuable

An essential functional ingredient for stabilizing complex emulsions while contributing to the overall emolliency and sensory profile of high-end skincare.


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