Ceteth-24

What is Ceteth-24?

Ceteth-24 is a synthetic non-ionic surfactant produced by ethoxylating cetyl alcohol—a long-chain fatty alcohol sourced from plant oils—with 24 ethylene oxide molecules. This results in a hydrophilic polyether chain attached to a lipophilic alkyl group, enabling its amphiphilic properties. Primarily used in rinse-off and leave-on cosmetics like lotions, creams, shampoos, and micellar waters, it serves as an emulsifier by bridging oil and water phases to form stable mixtures. As a surfactant, it disrupts surface tension to lift impurities during cleansing. Its solubilizing action disperses water-insoluble components, such as essential oils or scents, into aqueous systems for uniform, clear products without separation.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1-3 View on EWG →
PubChem View on PubChem →

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 gentle removal of dirt and oils through micelle formation.

Helps create stable emulsions for smooth-textured moisturizers and creams.

Aids in blending fragrances and oils into water formulas for even application.

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 with normal to oily skin needing effective yet mild cleansing.
Those sensitive to polyethoxylated compounds.
Users of emulsion-based products like lotions for hydration.
Individuals avoiding ethoxylated ingredients due to purity preferences.
People preferring clear toners or sprays with solubilized actives.
Persons with allergies to fatty alcohol derivatives.

Safety Notes

  • Non-ionic nature contributes to mild profile in cosmetic applications.
  • Assessed as low concern in typical use concentrations by safety panels.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ceteth-24

What does Ceteth-24 do in products?

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

Is Ceteth-24 safe for daily use?

It is generally safe in cosmetics at standard levels, with a low hazard profile.

Does Ceteth-24 cause irritation?

As a non-ionic surfactant, it has low irritation potential for most skin types.