Ceteareth-33

What is Ceteareth-33?

Ceteareth-33 is a synthetic nonionic surfactant produced by reacting cetyl alcohol, a fatty alcohol derived from natural sources like coconut or palm, with 33 units of ethylene oxide through an ethoxylation process. This creates a hydrophilic polyether chain attached to a lipophilic alkyl group, enabling it to bridge oil and water phases effectively. Commonly found in skincare creams, lotions, shampoos, and cleansers, it functions primarily as an emulsifier by reducing surface tension at interfaces, stabilizing oil-in-water emulsions to prevent separation. As a cleansing and solubilizing agent, it forms micelles that lift oils and dissolve hydrophobic ingredients like fragrances into aqueous systems, promoting clear, uniform product textures and enhanced performance in rinse-off and leave-on formulations.

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 in creams and lotions for smooth application.

Enhances cleansing in shampoos and washes by effectively removing oils and dirt.

Solubilizes fragrances and oils for clear, non-cloudy toners and sprays.

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 shampoos seeking effective yet gentle formulas.
Those preferring strictly natural or PEG-free products.
Individuals with normal skin preferring emulsified moisturizers.
Individuals sensitive to ethoxylated surfactants.
People using micellar waters or sprays that require ingredient solubility.
Users concerned about potential manufacturing impurities in synthetics.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low to moderate concern by EWG with scores of 1-3.
  • Assessed safe for cosmetic use by Cosmetic Ingredient Review experts.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ceteareth-33

What does Ceteareth-33 do in skincare?

It acts as a surfactant to emulsify, cleanse, and solubilize ingredients for stable, effective products.

Is Ceteareth-33 safe for sensitive skin?

It has low irritation potential per safety reviews, suitable for many but patch test if concerned.

Does Ceteareth-33 cause acne?

No, with a comedogenic rating of 0, it does not promote pore clogging.