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Moumoujus

OLETH-16.

Valuable CAS 9004-98-2 / SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

OLETH-16 is a polyethylene glycol ether of oleyl alcohol, primarily utilized in skincare as a versatile functional ingredient. It serves to stabilize formulations by enabling the homogeneous mixing of oil and water, and to enhance product performance through its solubilizing properties.

Summary

Emulsifying Surfactant Solubilizing

Science

Mechanism of Action

As a surfactant, OLETH-16 reduces the surface tension between different phases, allowing water to effectively mix with oil and dirt for improved cleansing. Its emulsifying action helps form stable emulsions, preventing product separation. Additionally, it acts as a solubilizer, dissolving oil-soluble ingredients into water-based formulations, which are otherwise incompatible.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

The solubility of Oleth ingredients in water generally increases with a higher content of ethylene oxide. This ingredient can exist in various physical forms, ranging from liquid to waxy solid, depending on its specific ethoxylation level.

Conflicts

  • May increase the penetration of other ingredients, requiring careful formulation consideration for potent actives.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has deemed Oleth ingredients, including OLETH-16, safe under current usage practices. However, it is noted that these ingredients may induce mild to moderate irritation in the eyes and on the skin. Furthermore, OLETH-16 can enhance the penetration of other ingredients, and its use is contraindicated on damaged skin. The potential presence of 1,4-dioxane, an ethoxylation by-product, is monitored by the FDA.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

OLETH-16 is a valuable functional ingredient for formulation stability and ingredient solubilization, with a generally safe profile, provided its potential for mild irritation and enhanced penetration of other actives is meticulously managed.

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