Ceteth-10

What is Ceteth-10?

Ceteth-10, known chemically as PEG-10 cetyl ether, is a synthetic nonionic surfactant formed by attaching 10 ethylene oxide units to cetyl alcohol, a long-chain fatty alcohol derived from natural sources such as coconut or palm kernel oil. This ethoxylation process imparts water solubility and amphiphilic properties, allowing it to interact effectively with both water and oils. Primarily used in emulsified cosmetics like creams, lotions, shampoos, and cleansers, it serves as a key ingredient in rinse-off and leave-on formulations. In products, Ceteth-10 reduces surface tension to facilitate the formation of micelles for dirt and oil removal during cleansing, while also stabilizing oil-in-water emulsions by creating a protective film around oil droplets, ensuring consistent texture and preventing separation over time.

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

Stabilizes emulsions in lotions and creams for even, non-separating textures.

Supports mild cleansing and foaming in shampoos and body washes.

Enhances product spreadability without clogging pores, as it is non-comedogenic.

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 moisturizers and lotions seeking smooth, stable formulas.
Those with rare allergies to fatty alcohols or ethoxylated compounds.
Individuals with normal or dry skin using gentle cleansers.
Individuals avoiding synthetic ingredients altogether.
People preferring effective yet mild surfactant-based products.
People with highly reactive skin, who should patch test first.

Safety Notes

  • Safety assessments deem it suitable for use in cosmetics at typical levels.
  • Presents low concern for skin irritation in most formulations.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ceteth-10

What does Ceteth-10 do in skincare?

It acts as a surfactant for cleansing and an emulsifier to mix oil and water stably in products like lotions and shampoos.

Is Ceteth-10 irritating to skin?

It has low irritation potential based on cosmetic safety evaluations.

Can Ceteth-10 cause breakouts?

Rated non-comedogenic, it does not typically clog pores.