Isoceteth-20

Benefits

Cleansing

What is Isoceteth-20?

Isoceteth-20 is a synthetic non-ionic surfactant made by ethoxylating isoctyl alcohol with 20 units of ethylene oxide, forming a molecule with a lipophilic alkyl chain and a hydrophilic polyether segment. This amphiphilic structure enables it to bridge oil and water phases effectively. Primarily used in rinse-off products like shampoos, body washes, and facial cleansers, as well as leave-on emulsions such as lotions and creams, it reduces surface tension to lift away soils, stabilizes mixtures by creating protective films around droplets, and disperses water-insoluble components like essential oils and perfumes into clear aqueous systems, ensuring product clarity and consistency 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.

Emulsifying agent

Enables stable mixing of oil and water phases by forming an interfacial film, helping create lotions, creams, and cleansers with consistent texture.

Solubilizing agent

Helps incorporate oils and fragrance into water-based formulas by forming micro-solutions, enabling clear sprays, toners, and micellar products.

Benefits

Enables thorough cleansing by lowering surface tension to dislodge dirt and oils.

Supports emulsion stability for smooth, even-textured creams and lotions.

Facilitates solubilization of fragrances and oils in water-based products for uniform distribution.

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 non-comedogenic cleansers for daily use.	People with sensitivity to ethoxylated surfactants.
Users of lotions and creams preferring stable, non-separating textures.	Individuals preferring minimal-ingredient or PEG-free formulas.
Those incorporating scented toners or sprays without cloudiness.	Users experiencing reactions to non-ionic emulsifiers.

Safety Notes

Assessed as safe for use in cosmetics by regulatory reviews.
Presents low comedogenic potential, suitable for acne-prone skin.

Frequently Asked Questions about Isoceteth-20

What does Isoceteth-20 do in products?

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

Is Isoceteth-20 comedogenic?

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

Is it safe for sensitive skin?

It generally shows low irritation potential in cosmetics, though patch testing is advised.