Ceteareth-20

Benefits
Softening

What is Ceteareth-20?

Ceteareth-20 belongs to the class of ethoxylated fatty alcohols, specifically created by combining cetearyl alcohol—a mixture of cetyl and stearyl alcohols often derived from plant sources like coconut or palm—with 20 units of ethylene oxide. This process yields a hydrophilic molecule with both lipophilic and hydrophilic properties, classifying it as a non-ionic surfactant. It appears in various cosmetic categories, including moisturizers, cleansers, shampoos, and conditioners. In formulations, it functions by lowering surface tension to facilitate the mixing of oil and water phases, forming stable emulsions. It also enables effective cleansing through micelle formation that lifts away oils and debris, and aids in dispersing hydrophobic ingredients like fragrances into aqueous bases for uniform products.

Comedogenic Rating 2/5 Moderate risk
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.
Cleansing agent
Removes dirt, oil, and impurities by lowering surface tension and forming micelles, enabling soils to be lifted and rinsed away from skin, hair, or teeth.
Solubilizing agent
Helps incorporate oils and fragrance into water-based formulas by forming micro-solutions, enabling clear sprays, toners, and micellar products.

Benefits

Provides gentle cleansing action that removes impurities while softening skin.

Supports emulsion stability in creams and lotions for smooth texture.

Enhances product performance by solubilizing oils and scents effectively.

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 with normal or dry skin using daily cleansers and moisturizers.
Those with acne-prone skin due to moderate comedogenic potential.
Users seeking foaming shampoos or body washes with mild surfactants.
Individuals with highly sensitive skin prone to surfactant irritation.
People incorporating water-based toners needing clear, stable formulas.
Users preferring to limit ethoxylated ingredients in routines.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low to moderate hazard by the Environmental Working Group.
  • Deemed safe for use in cosmetics by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ceteareth-20

What does Ceteareth-20 do in skincare?

It acts as a surfactant to cleanse, emulsify oils into water, and solubilize fragrances for stable, effective products.

Is Ceteareth-20 safe for daily use?

Yes, it's generally safe in cosmetics per reviews from authoritative bodies, with low to moderate hazard scores.

Does it cause breakouts?

It has a moderate comedogenic rating, so acne-prone skin may want to use cautiously.