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Moumoujus

OCTOXYNOL-16.

Valuable CAS 9002-93-1 / CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

Octoxynol-16 is an ethoxylated alkylphenol functioning as a versatile surfactant in skincare. It adeptly reduces surface tension, enabling the formation of stable emulsions and facilitating the removal of lipid and soil particles during cleansing.

Summary

Surfactant Emulsifier Cleansing Agent Solubilizing Agent Hydrotrope

Science

Mechanism of Action

Operating as a surfactant, Octoxynol-16's primary mechanism involves decreasing the surface tension of liquids. This property is crucial for creating stable emulsions by bridging typically immiscible components like oil and water. On the skin, it acts as a cleansing agent and solubilizer, effectively lifting and removing fat and dirt.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range 0.0008–25%
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
25%
Sensitization risk Unknown

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel concluded that long-chain octoxynols, including Octoxynol-16, are safe for use in cosmetic products (rinse-off and leave-on), provided formulations are non-irritating. General cosmetic use concentrations span from 0.0008% to 25%, with the majority typically under 5.0%. Manufacturers are advised to minimize impurities such as ethylene oxide, 1,4-dioxane, and unreacted C9 phenols. This ingredient also has FDA approval for specific indirect food-related applications.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

No Normal
No Dry
No Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Unknown
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Octoxynol-16 is a valuable functional ingredient in cosmetic formulations, primarily acting as an emulsifier and cleansing agent, recognized as safe for use by CIR when properly formulated to be non-irritating.

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