Ceteareth-2

What is Ceteareth-2?

Ceteareth-2 is a synthetic nonionic surfactant created by ethoxylating cetyl alcohol—a fatty alcohol sourced from plant oils like coconut or palm—with two units of ethylene oxide. This process enhances its solubility in water and ability to interact with oils. In cosmetics, it appears in categories like moisturizers, cleansers, and hair conditioners. It works by reducing surface tension at the oil-water interface, forming a protective film that stabilizes emulsions and prevents separation. This results in products with even consistency and spreadability. As a surfactant, it supports gentle cleansing by loosening soils and excess oils without stripping the skin barrier aggressively. Its relatively low hydrophilic-lipophilic balance suits water-in-oil systems but adapts to various formulations for everyday skincare.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1-3 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

Stabilizes oil-water mixtures for smooth, non-separating creams and lotions.

Aids in gentle cleansing by lowering surface tension to remove impurities.

Contributes to lightweight, spreadable textures in daily skincare products.

Who It's For

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

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Users preferring creamy moisturizers with consistent blend.
Those with known sensitivity to ethoxylated ingredients.
Individuals using foaming body washes or shampoos for mild cleansing.
Individuals experiencing irritation from nonionic surfactants.
People with normal skin seeking stable emulsion-based formulas.
Users preferring completely non-synthetic emulsifiers.

Safety Notes

  • Deemed safe for cosmetic use by expert reviews like CIR, within typical concentrations.
  • Low comedogenic potential, rated 0, suitable for acne-prone skin.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ceteareth-2

What is the comedogenic rating of Ceteareth-2?

Rated 0, indicating low likelihood of pore clogging.

Is Ceteareth-2 suitable for cleansers?

Yes, it acts as a surfactant to enable effective yet mild cleansing.

What EWG score does Ceteareth-2 have?

Ranges from 1 to 3, reflecting low to moderate hazard potential.