Science
Mechanism of Action
This ingredient operates by lowering the surface tension between different phases within a cosmetic formulation. Its nonionic surfactant properties facilitate the formation of stable emulsions, enabling oil and water components to mix, while also assisting in the uniform dispersion and dissolution of other active or inactive substances.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Low confidenceN/A
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
The Formula
Formulation
Conflicts
- Not suitable for formulations targeting the European Union market due to stringent environmental restrictions on nonylphenol ethoxylates.
- Requires precise formulation to ensure it remains non-irritating to the skin.
Safety
Safety Profile
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel deemed NONYL NONOXYNOL-100 safe for use in cosmetics, provided products are formulated to be non-irritating. However, this ingredient, as a nonylphenol ethoxylate, faces severe restrictions or effective bans in the European Union, limited to 0.1% by weight, due to environmental concerns regarding its persistence and potential for endocrine disruption. The FDA's records indicate an 'INCOMPLETE DEFINITION' and 'FAILED' status for NONYL NONOXYNOL-100. It is crucial to distinguish this from Nonoxynol-9, which has specific FDA warnings regarding contraceptive use and increased HIV risk due to irritation; these warnings do not directly apply to NONYL NONOXYNOL-100 in cosmetic contexts but highlight potential irritancy concerns within the nonoxynol family.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Despite its functional versatility as an emulsifier and solubilizer, NONYL NONOXYNOL-100 presents significant formulation challenges and regulatory hurdles due to environmental and endocrine disruption concerns, particularly within the EU market, making its use questionable for a precision skincare brand.
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References
Sources