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Moumoujus

GLYCERETH-12.

Valuable CAS 31694-55-0 / HUMECTANT, VISCOSITY CONTROLLING

Glycereth-12 is a versatile ingredient functioning primarily as an excellent humectant to hydrate skin, an emollient for enhanced smoothness, and an effective oil-in-water emulsifier. It enhances product texture and stability while contributing to skin's delicate feel.

Summary

moisturizer/humectant emollient emulsifier viscosity controlling solvent

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient actively draws and retains moisture in the skin, contributing to improved hydration and a supple feel due to its humectant properties. Functioning as an emollient, it conditions the skin's surface, imparting a soft, smooth, and refined touch. Its non-ionic surfactant characteristics, marked by an approximate HLB of 17, establish it as an effective emulsifier for oil-in-water formulations, facilitating the stable combination of typically immiscible phases. Beyond this, Glycereth-12 can modulate product rheology by influencing viscosity and serves as a solvent for various active compounds, essential oils, or fragrances.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range 0.07–0.35%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 An EpiOcular™ assay predicted non-irritancy for ocular applications at an effective concentration of 0.07%.
  2. 02 A Human Repeat Insult Patch Test (HRIPT) conducted on a mascara formulation containing 0.35% Glycereth-12 demonstrated no induced irritation or sensitization.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Maintains stability across a broad pH range.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Max tested
While not explicitly defined for Glycereth-12, related ethoxylated glycerins (e.g., Glycereth-26) have been noted in CIR reports at concentrations up to 39.5% in rinse-off products and 6% in leave-on formulations.%
Sensitization risk Low

The CIR Expert Panel concluded Glycereth-12 is safe for cosmetic use under current practices and concentrations, provided it is formulated to be non-irritating. This determination followed initial reviews which requested more comprehensive HRIPT data.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Glycereth-12 is a valuable, multi-functional ingredient that significantly enhances hydration, product texture, and formulation stability, demonstrating good safety and broad compatibility across all skin types.

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