Ceteareth-29

What is Ceteareth-29?

Ceteareth-29 consists of cetyl alcohol, a long-chain fatty alcohol from plant sources like coconut, combined with about 29 units of ethylene oxide to form an ethoxylated ether. This structure imparts both lipophilic and hydrophilic properties, classifying it as a non-ionic surfactant. Commonly found in lotions, creams, shampoos, and cleansing products, it works by reducing interfacial tension between immiscible liquids, allowing oils to mix with water for stable emulsions. It forms micelles to encapsulate soils for removal during rinsing and disperses hydrophobic materials like fragrances into aqueous systems, promoting clarity and homogeneity in formulas. Its balanced chain length provides effective performance without excessive foaming.

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

Supports gentle removal of dirt and excess oils from skin and hair.

Enables stable blending of oil and water phases in moisturizers and creams.

Improves incorporation of fragrances and oils into clear water-based 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
People with normal or combination skin using daily cleansers.
Those with allergies to polyethylene glycol derivatives.
Users of emulsion-based moisturizers and conditioners.
People preferring non-ethoxylated or fully natural surfactants.
Individuals seeking stable, clear toners or sprays.
Sensitive individuals experiencing rare contact reactions.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low hazard by safety assessments for cosmetic applications.
  • Non-comedogenic and suitable in rinse-off and leave-on products.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ceteareth-29

What does Ceteareth-29 do in products?

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

Is Ceteareth-29 irritating?

It has low irritation potential as a mild non-ionic surfactant.

Can it clog pores?

Rated non-comedogenic, suitable for acne-prone skin.