Ceteareth-6 Olivate

What is Ceteareth-6 Olivate?

Ceteareth-6 Olivate is a non-ionic surfactant produced by ethoxylating cetearyl alcohol with six moles of ethylene oxide and then esterifying it with fatty acids from olive oil. This creates a molecule with hydrophilic head and lipophilic tail suited for cosmetic emulsions. Primarily used in oil-in-water formulations like moisturizers, lotions, and cleansers, it reduces interfacial tension between oil and water phases. This action forms a protective film around oil droplets, preventing coalescence and ensuring product stability over time. The olive-derived chains provide a conditioning, velvety skin feel, enhancing spreadability and reducing greasiness. Its balanced HLB value makes it ideal for lightweight textures in daily skincare and hair products, where it supports uniform distribution of active ingredients without compromising formulation integrity.

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:

Emulsion stabilizer
Improves emulsion robustness by preventing droplet coalescence and phase separation, often by thickening, structuring, or strengthening the interfacial layer.
Emollient
Softens and smooths skin by filling in surface roughness and improving slip; can also help reduce moisture loss when paired with occlusives and film formers.
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

Supports stable blending of oils and water for consistent lotion and cream textures.

Softens skin surface and enhances product slip for smoother application.

Strengthens emulsions to prevent separation and maintain product quality.

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 gentle emulsifiers in moisturizers for everyday use.
Those sensitive to ethoxylated surfactants.
People with normal to dry skin appreciating softening effects.
People with rare olive fatty acid allergies.
Users of natural-leaning formulas valuing olive oil components.
Individuals preferring fully non-synthetic ingredients.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low overall hazard potential by EWG.
  • Non-comedogenic, suitable for acne-prone skin.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ceteareth-6 Olivate

What does Ceteareth-6 Olivate do in products?

It emulsifies oils and water, stabilizes emulsions, and acts as a skin softener for better texture.

Is Ceteareth-6 Olivate comedogenic?

It has a comedogenic rating of 0, meaning it is unlikely to clog pores.

How safe is Ceteareth-6 Olivate?

EWG scores it 1-3, indicating low concern for use in cosmetics.