Ceteareth-23

What is Ceteareth-23?

Ceteareth-23 belongs to the ceteareth family of non-ionic surfactants, created by ethoxylating cetyl alcohol—a fatty alcohol often sourced from plant oils—with 23 units of ethylene oxide. This modification enhances its solubility in water while preserving a gentle profile. In cosmetics, it appears in lotions, creams, shampoos, and cleansers within the emulsifying and cleansing categories. It works by decreasing surface tension between oil and water, forming stable micelles that lift away residues and stabilize emulsions for smooth textures. As a solubilizer, it disperses water-insoluble components like scents into clear formulas, preventing separation. Its structure avoids charged groups, contributing to milder interactions with skin compared to some alternatives.

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.
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

Enables effective yet gentle removal of dirt and excess oils from skin.

Supports creation of stable emulsions for consistent product textures.

Facilitates incorporation of fragrances and oils into watery bases for uniform application.

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 daily cleansers or body washes for routine hygiene.
Those with rare sensitivities to ethoxylated ingredients.
Individuals with normal or oily skin preferring non-drying formulas.
People avoiding synthetic surfactants in favor of plant-based options.
Users of lotions and shampoos needing reliable emulsification.
Individuals experiencing reactions in high-surfactant products.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low hazard by assessment groups, suitable for typical cosmetic concentrations.
  • Trace impurities possible from manufacturing; select products adhering to quality standards.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ceteareth-23

What does Ceteareth-23 do in products?

It acts as a surfactant to cleanse, emulsify oils with water, and solubilize fragrances for stable formulas.

Is Ceteareth-23 irritating to skin?

It has low irritation potential as a non-ionic surfactant per safety reviews.

Can it clog pores?

It carries a comedogenic rating of 0, suggesting low likelihood of pore blockage.