Beheneth-10

What is Beheneth-10?

Beheneth-10 is a polyoxyethylene ether of behenyl alcohol, where behenyl alcohol—a C22 fatty alcohol obtained from vegetable sources like rapeseed oil—is reacted with 10 moles of ethylene oxide. This creates a molecule with a hydrophobic alkyl chain and a hydrophilic polyether segment, classifying it as a non-ionic surfactant. It appears in rinse-off and leave-on products such as lotions, conditioners, and body washes. In formulations, it lowers interfacial tension to stabilize oil-in-water emulsions, preventing phase separation and ensuring uniform texture. It also facilitates the dispersion of hydrophobic components, promotes mild foaming, and improves rinseability, contributing to a non-greasy after-feel during application.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1 View on EWG →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Surfactant
Lowers surface tension to enable cleansing, emulsifying, and foaming; central to shampoos, body washes, and many emulsions and micellar systems.
Emulsifying agent
Enables stable mixing of oil and water phases by forming an interfacial film, helping create lotions, creams, and cleansers with consistent texture.

Benefits

Supports creation of stable emulsions in creams and lotions for consistent application.

Aids in gentle cleansing by reducing surface tension in washes and shampoos.

Enhances solubility of other ingredients for improved product performance.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
People using emulsion-based moisturizers seeking smooth textures.
Those with rare sensitivities to ethoxylated compounds.
Individuals preferring non-comedogenic cleansers and conditioners.
People opting for completely PEG-free products.
Users of daily skincare routines with surfactant needs.
Individuals with highly reactive skin preferring minimal surfactants.

Safety Notes

  • Assessed as low hazard in cosmetic safety evaluations.
  • Shows no comedogenic potential in standard ratings.

Frequently Asked Questions about Beheneth-10

What does Beheneth-10 do in skincare?

It acts as a surfactant and emulsifier to mix oil and water stably in products like lotions and shampoos.

Is Beheneth-10 comedogenic?

It has a comedogenic rating of 0, suitable for pore-friendly formulas.

How safe is Beheneth-10 overall?

Rated low hazard by assessments, with mild profile for cosmetic use.