Science
Mechanism of Action
This ingredient operates by reducing the interfacial tension between oil and water phases, allowing them to mix and form stable emulsions. As a surfactant, it aids in solubilizing oil and dirt on the skin's surface, enabling their removal with water. Furthermore, its structural relation to oleyl alcohol suggests a potential role as a permeation enhancer, capable of temporarily fluidizing stratum corneum lipids to improve the delivery of other active ingredients, without persistent detrimental effects on barrier integrity.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Low confidenceN/A
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
OLETH-100 is highly water-soluble, with its solubility generally increasing with higher ethylene oxide content. It functions effectively as an oil-in-water (O/W) emulsifier. While specific pH stability for OLETH-100 is not explicitly defined, related Oleth compounds exhibit pH sensitivity (e.g., Oleth-5 between pH 5.0-7.0) or stability (e.g., Oleth-20 at pH 6.0 against acids and alkalis). Formulators should prioritize achieving a non-irritating final product pH.
Safety
Safety Profile
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel deemed Oleth ingredients, including OLETH-100, safe for use under current practices and concentrations, provided the final formulation is non-irritating. However, there is a recognized potential for mild to moderate eye and skin irritation. Importantly, OLETH-100 should not be applied to compromised or damaged skin, as its permeation-enhancing properties could inadvertently increase the absorption of other ingredients. The manufacturing process of ethoxylation may introduce trace residues of ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane, both classified as potential carcinogens; however, these are typically controlled through rigorous purification steps.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
While effective as an emulsifier and cleansing agent, OLETH-100's potential for irritation, specific contraindications for damaged skin, and ethoxylation byproduct concerns warrant careful consideration in precision skincare formulations.
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References
Sources