C9-11 Pareth-8

What is C9-11 Pareth-8?

C9-11 Pareth-8 is a nonionic surfactant produced by ethoxylating a blend of synthetic fatty alcohols with carbon chain lengths of 9 to 11 units, incorporating an average of 8 moles of ethylene oxide. This chemical modification imparts water solubility and mild surface-active properties. Commonly found in rinse-off personal care products such as shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, and light lotions, it works by reducing surface tension between oil and water, facilitating the removal of dirt, oils, and makeup. As an emulsifier, it stabilizes formulations by creating a protective film at the interface of immiscible phases, ensuring even texture and preventing separation. Its nonionic nature contributes to lower irritation potential compared to some charged surfactants, making it suitable for everyday cleansing routines.

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 thorough yet gentle cleansing by lowering surface tension to lift away impurities.

Aids in creating stable emulsions for smooth, consistent product textures.

Promotes desirable foaming qualities in shampoos and washes.

Who It's For

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

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Individuals seeking mild, effective cleansers for daily use.
Those with highly reactive skin prone to contact dermatitis from ethoxylated compounds.
People with normal to combination skin preferring foam-rich shampoos or body washes.
People preferring completely natural or sulfate-free alternatives only.
Users of emulsified products like light lotions wanting reliable stability.
Individuals sensitive to synthetic surfactants in general.

Safety Notes

  • Recognized as low hazard in cosmetic safety assessments.
  • Typically used in rinse-off products to minimize potential exposure.

Frequently Asked Questions about C9-11 Pareth-8

What does C9-11 Pareth-8 do in products?

It acts as a surfactant to cleanse and emulsify, helping mix oils and water for stable, foamy formulas.

Is C9-11 Pareth-8 safe for skin?

Safety evaluations rate it low concern for use in rinse-off cosmetics.

Does it clog pores?

It carries a non-comedogenic rating, unlikely to contribute to pore blockage.