Octoxynol-11

What is Octoxynol-11?

Octoxynol-11 is a synthetic nonionic surfactant chemically known as polyethylene glycol (11) octylphenyl ether, produced by reacting p-octylphenol with 11 moles of ethylene oxide. This ethoxylation process creates a molecule with both hydrophobic alkyl chains and hydrophilic polyether segments, enabling it to interact at oil-water interfaces. In cosmetics, it appears in shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, and emulsified lotions or creams. It functions primarily by lowering surface tension, which disperses oils and dirt for effective cleansing, and by forming micellar structures that solubilize hydrophobic ingredients. As an emulsifier, it stabilizes oil-in-water formulations by creating a protective film around droplets, preventing phase separation and ensuring product consistency during storage and application.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 7 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.

Benefits

Enables thorough cleansing by reducing surface tension to lift away oils and residues.

Stabilizes emulsions in lotions and creams for smooth, uniform textures.

Supports foaming action in washes and shampoos for better lather.

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 seeking effective oil removal in daily cleansers.
Those with sensitive or reactive skin prone to irritation.
Individuals using emulsified moisturizers or treatment lotions.
Individuals with compromised skin barriers like eczema.
People with normal skin tolerant to surfactant-based products.
Users concerned about high-hazard rated ingredients.

Safety Notes

  • High hazard rating from EWG due to potential impurities from ethoxylation process.
  • Possible moderate skin irritation based on animal and human patch test data from safety reviews.

Frequently Asked Questions about Octoxynol-11

What is Octoxynol-11 used for in cosmetics?

It serves as a surfactant for cleansing and an emulsifying agent to mix oil and water in products like shampoos and lotions.

Is Octoxynol-11 comedogenic?

It has a comedogenic rating of 0, indicating low likelihood of pore clogging.

Why is Octoxynol-11 rated high hazard by EWG?

Due to concerns over potential impurities and irritation from ethoxylation byproducts.