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Moumoujus

OCTOXYNOL-3.

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

Octoxynol-3 is a synthetic ethoxylated alkylphenol, primarily utilized in cosmetics as a versatile surfactant for emulsifying, cleansing, and solubilizing. Its application is restricted to specific concentrations and formulations, acknowledging potential for skin sensitization and absorption in short-chain variants.

Summary

surfactant emulsifying cleansing solubilizing hydrotrope

Science

Mechanism of Action

Functioning as a surfactant, Octoxynol-3 actively reduces the surface tension between disparate ingredients, which is crucial for forming stable emulsions and enabling oil and water to mix effectively. This action facilitates enhanced cleansing by helping to suspend and rinse away hydrophobic substances like dirt and sebum from the skin.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Safety assessments demonstrated no eye irritation in rabbits at 15% concentration, the highest tested level.
  2. 02 A 48-hour human patch test involving 50 subjects showed no skin irritation when Octoxynol-3 was applied undiluted.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Conflicts

  • Should not be used in products applied around the eyes due to concerns regarding ocular irritancy of short-chain octoxynols.
  • Levels of impurities such as 1,4-dioxane, ethylene oxide, and unreacted C9 phenols must be minimized through purification processes.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Max tested
5%
Sensitization risk Moderate

The CIR Expert Panel considers Octoxynol-3 safe for use in rinse-off cosmetic products and at concentrations up to 5% in leave-on products, provided the final formulation is non-irritating. Concerns exist regarding potential skin sensitization and absorption, particularly with short-chain octoxynols. The FDA has approved Octoxynol-3 for indirect food contact uses. Manufacturers are obligated to control and minimize residual 1,4-dioxane, a by-product of its ethoxylation.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Optional

Octoxynol-3 functions as an effective surfactant, but its inclusion requires strict adherence to concentration limits, careful formulation to avoid irritation, and exclusion from ocular applications due to sensitization potential.

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