Ceteareth-30

What is Ceteareth-30?

Ceteareth-30 is a synthetic non-ionic surfactant produced by ethoxylating cetyl alcohol, a long-chain fatty alcohol sourced from plant oils like coconut or palm kernel. This process adds multiple ethylene oxide units, creating a hydrophilic head and lipophilic tail that balances water and oil affinity. Primarily used in oil-in-water emulsions such as moisturizers, cleansers, shampoos, and conditioners, it functions by lowering interfacial tension between phases. This action disperses oils into fine droplets, stabilizes mixtures against separation, and forms uniform textures. Additionally, it facilitates the incorporation of lipophilic ingredients like essential oils into watery bases, supporting clear solutions, and enhances rinse-off by aiding micelle formation to lift impurities. Its mild profile suits daily rinse-off and leave-on products.

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 stable emulsions for smooth, non-separating lotions and creams.

Aids gentle cleansing by enabling dirt and oil removal without harshness.

Improves formula clarity by solubilizing fragrances and oils in water-based items.

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 of daily cleansers and body washes seeking effective yet mild surfactants.
Those with known sensitivity to ethoxylated compounds.
Individuals preferring non-comedogenic emulsions in moisturizers and serums.
Individuals preferring strictly PEG-free formulations.
People formulating or using products with fragrances needing clear, stable solutions.
Users experiencing irritation from similar non-ionic surfactants.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low hazard by EWG with scores from 1 to 3.
  • Non-comedogenic with a rating of 0, suitable for acne-prone skin.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ceteareth-30

What does Ceteareth-30 do in products?

It emulsifies oils into water, cleanses by forming micelles, and solubilizes fragrances for stable formulas.

Is Ceteareth-30 safe for sensitive skin?

Generally low irritation with EWG scores 1-3 and non-comedogenic rating of 0.

Can it cause breakouts?

No, it has a comedogenic rating of 0, making it unlikely to clog pores.