Dihydrocholeth 30

What is Dihydrocholeth 30?

Dihydrocholeth-30 is a synthetic non-ionic surfactant, specifically a polyoxyethylene (30) ether of dihydrocholesterol. Dihydrocholesterol comes from hydrogenated cholesterol, a lipid similar to those in human skin. The ingredient forms through attaching 30 ethylene oxide units to dihydrocholesterol, yielding a molecule that balances water-loving and oil-loving traits. In skincare, it appears in cleansers, shampoos, body washes, and lotions. As a surfactant, it reduces surface tension to lift dirt, oils, and impurities from skin into rinseable foam or micelles. Its emulsifying action creates a protective layer at oil-water boundaries, keeping product phases blended for even consistency and spreadability. This supports clear, non-separating textures in water-based emulsions and micellar technologies.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 2 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

Facilitates effective yet gentle dirt and oil removal during washing.

Promotes stable blending of ingredients for smooth, consistent product feel.

Contributes to light foaming action in rinse-off cleansers.

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 mild cleansing in daily washes or shampoos.
Those with known sensitivity to polyethylene glycol derivatives.
Users of lotions and creams wanting uniform texture.
Individuals preferring completely oil-free or anhydrous products.
People preferring non-comedogenic formulas for everyday use.
Users avoiding ethoxylated ingredients on principle.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low concern for health impacts in cosmetic safety reviews.
  • Non-comedogenic, unlikely to clog pores based on assessments.

Frequently Asked Questions about Dihydrocholeth 30

What does Dihydrocholeth-30 do in products?

It acts as a surfactant to cleanse by reducing surface tension and an emulsifier to mix oils and water stably.

Is Dihydrocholeth-30 safe for skin?

Cosmetic panels rate it low risk, with minimal irritation potential for most users.

Does it cause breakouts?

Assigned a comedogenic rating of zero, indicating low pore-clogging likelihood.