Ceteth-25

What is Ceteth-25?

Ceteth-25 is a synthetic polyether compound formed by reacting cetyl alcohol, a fatty alcohol derived from natural sources like coconut or palm, with 25 molecules of ethylene oxide. This ethoxylation process yields a non-ionic surfactant featuring a long hydrophobic cetyl chain attached to a hydrophilic polyethylene glycol chain. In cosmetic products such as lotions, creams, shampoos, and micellar waters, it serves primarily in rinse-off and leave-on applications. Functionally, it reduces surface tension between oil and water phases to form stable emulsions, encapsulates soils for effective rinsing during cleansing, and disperses hydrophobic materials like fragrances into aqueous systems, promoting formula clarity and homogeneity. Its balanced hydrophile-lipophile properties support versatile use across product types.

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

Facilitates gentle removal of dirt and oils through micelle formation.

Stabilizes oil-in-water emulsions for smooth, spreadable textures.

Enhances incorporation of fragrances and oils into clear water-based products.

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 preferring mild cleansing in daily routines.
People with known sensitivity to ethoxylated compounds.
Users of emulsified moisturizers and lotions.
Those experiencing irritation from similar non-ionic surfactants.
Those formulating or using clear toners and sprays.
Individuals preferring completely PEG-free products.

Safety Notes

  • Assessed as safe for cosmetic use by Cosmetic Ingredient Review when formulated appropriately.
  • Rated low hazard potential (1-3) by Environmental Working Group.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ceteth-25

What does Ceteth-25 do in products?

It acts as a surfactant to cleanse, emulsify oils into water, and solubilize fragrances for stable, clear formulas.

Is Ceteth-25 comedogenic?

No, it has a comedogenic rating of 0, suitable for most skin types without pore-clogging concerns.

How safe is Ceteth-25?

Rated low (1-3) by EWG and deemed safe by Cosmetic Ingredient Review for typical cosmetic concentrations.