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Moumoujus

OCTOXYNOL-5.

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

Octoxynol-5 is a versatile synthetic surfactant primarily valued for its ability to stabilize emulsions, facilitate thorough cleansing by lifting oils and dirt, and enhance the solubility of other formulation components. Its unique structure enables it to reduce surface tension, making it a key functional ingredient in various cosmetic applications.

Summary

Emulsifying Surfactant Cleansing Solubilizing

Science

Mechanism of Action

Octoxynol-5 functions as a non-ionic surfactant by reducing the surface tension between immiscible phases, such as oil and water. This property allows it to form stable emulsions, effectively blend ingredients that typically resist mixing, and aid in the removal of sebum and impurities from skin and hair by enabling them to be rinsed away with water. It also acts as a solubilizing agent, helping to dissolve hydrophobic compounds in aqueous systems.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Did not induce skin irritation in a 48-hour patch test involving 50 subjects.
  2. 02 Classified as a nonirritant.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

No specific optimal pH range for stability has been identified for Octoxynol-5. For optimal product integrity, manufacturers should minimize impurities such as heavy metals, ethylene oxide, and 1,4-dioxane during formulation.

Conflicts

  • Strong oxidizing agents
  • Strong reducing agents

Safety

Safety Profile

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

Octoxynol-5 is deemed safe for use in rinse-off cosmetic products and safe at concentrations of ≤ 5% in leave-on cosmetic products by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR). These limitations are specifically imposed due to concerns regarding potential skin sensitization and increased percutaneous absorption associated with short-chain Octoxynols. Formulations must also rigorously control and minimize trace amounts of potential by-products, including 1,4-dioxane, ethylene oxide, and unreacted C9 phenols.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Questionable

While functionally effective as a surfactant and emulsifier, Octoxynol-5's restricted use (maximum 5% in leave-on products) and identified potential for skin sensitization and unwanted impurities warrant careful consideration for precision skincare formulations.

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