Science
Mechanism of Action
As a member of the Oleth family, Oleth-24 functions by significantly reducing the surface tension between immiscible liquids. This surfactant action allows it to serve as an emulsifying, cleansing, and solubilizing agent, effectively blending oil and water to facilitate the removal of impurities and ensure stable product consistency.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Insufficient-data confidenceN/A
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
The water solubility of Oleth components generally increases proportionally with their ethylene oxide content. While higher ethoxylated Oleths are typically stable across a broad pH range (acid to alkali), lower ethoxylated variants, such as Oleth-5, can be susceptible to hydrolysis at high pH levels.
Conflicts
- High pH (specifically for lower ethoxylated Oleths)
Safety
Safety Profile
The CIR Expert Panel has concluded that Oleth-24 is safe when formulated to be non-irritating and used in appropriate concentrations. However, formulators should note that Oleth ingredients can enhance the dermal penetration of other active ingredients and should therefore not be applied to damaged skin. There is also a potential concern for contamination with 1,4-dioxane, a byproduct of the ethoxylation process.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Oleth-24 is a valuable multi-functional ingredient that effectively cleanses and stabilizes cosmetic formulations, provided it is formulated to be non-irritating.
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References
Sources