Ceteareth-6

Benefits
Softening

What is Ceteareth-6?

Ceteareth-6 is a synthetic nonionic surfactant created by ethoxylating cetearyl alcohol, a mixture of cetyl and stearyl alcohols sourced from plant-derived fats such as coconut or palm kernel oil, with six units of ethylene oxide. This modification enhances its solubility in water while maintaining compatibility with oils. Primarily used in rinse-off and leave-on cosmetics like moisturizers, shampoos, conditioners, and body washes, it serves as a versatile ingredient in personal care formulations. By lowering interfacial tension, it stabilizes emulsions, preventing separation of immiscible ingredients and yielding products with uniform consistency and smooth application. Its surfactant properties also support gentle cleansing and mild foaming, making it suitable for everyday skincare and haircare items seeking balanced performance without excessive drying.

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.
Emulsifying agent
Enables stable mixing of oil and water phases by forming an interfacial film, helping create lotions, creams, and cleansers with consistent texture.

Benefits

Promotes a softening sensation in formulations for comfortable skin feel.

Facilitates stable blending of oils and water for even-textured creams and lotions.

Provides mild cleansing action ideal for shampoos and gentle washes.

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 seeking smoother, emulsified moisturizers for daily hydration.
People with rare sensitivity to ethoxylated ingredients.
Users of hair and body cleansers preferring soft, non-drying results.
Individuals allergic to fatty alcohols like cetyl or stearyl.
Those with normal skin wanting versatile product stability.
Those preferring completely natural, non-synthetic formulations.

Safety Notes

  • Cosmetic Ingredient Review experts deem it safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations.
  • Displays low potential for comedogenicity and irritation in standard applications.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ceteareth-6

What is Ceteareth-6 used for in cosmetics?

It acts as a surfactant and emulsifier to mix oil and water phases, stabilizing lotions, shampoos, and cleansers for smooth textures.

Is Ceteareth-6 comedogenic?

It carries a comedogenic rating of 0, indicating low likelihood of pore clogging.

How safe is Ceteareth-6 for skin?

Regulatory reviews confirm its safety in cosmetics, with low irritation potential at common use levels.