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Moumoujus

OLETH-4.

Valuable CAS 9004-98-2 / SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

OLETH-4 is a polyoxyethylene ether of oleyl alcohol, a synthetic compound that plays a crucial role in enhancing product stability and texture. It functions primarily to facilitate the mixing of incompatible substances and support effective skin cleansing.

Summary

Surfactant Emulsifying Cleansing Solubilizer

Science

Mechanism of Action

As a surfactant, OLETH-4 reduces surface tension, enabling oil and water to blend and form stable emulsions. This property is vital for breaking down and rinsing away oil-based impurities and dirt from the skin. It also acts as an emulsifier to stabilize product formulations and as a solubilizer, helping to integrate oil-soluble ingredients into aqueous systems.

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

OLETH-4 exhibits moderate water solubility, less than higher ethoxylated Oleths (e.g., Oleth-10 or Oleth-20), yet it effectively bridges water and oil phases. It maintains efficacy and stability across acidic, neutral, and diluted alkaline pH conditions. Notably, OLETH-4 can enhance the dermal penetration of other active ingredients within a formulation.

Synergies

  • Enhances penetration of other ingredients

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has concluded that Oleth ingredients, including OLETH-4, are safe for use under current cosmetic practices. However, it is stipulated that these ingredients should not be applied to damaged or compromised skin (e.g., burns) due to the potential for systemic absorption of its PEG component, which has been linked to kidney effects in burn patients treated with PEG-based ointments. Formulators must also consider OLETH-4's ability to increase the penetration of other substances, which necessitates careful evaluation of overall product safety. The FDA regulates cosmetic ingredients, holding companies responsible for product safety, without requiring pre-market approval for non-color additives.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

OLETH-4 is a valuable functional ingredient, serving as an effective surfactant, emulsifier, and solubilizer, deemed safe for intact skin with low irritancy and moderate comedogenicity, though its penetration-enhancing properties require careful formulation.

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