Octoxynol-40

What is Octoxynol-40?

Octoxynol-40, or polyethylene glycol (40) octylphenyl ether, is a synthetic nonionic surfactant formed by ethoxylating octylphenol with 40 moles of ethylene oxide. It belongs to the alkylphenol ethoxylate family and appears in rinse-off cosmetics such as shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, and makeup removers. In formulations, it lowers surface tension between water and oils, enabling effective dirt removal through micelle formation. It also stabilizes emulsions by preventing phase separation in creams and lotions, and disperses water-insoluble fragrances or oils into clear aqueous solutions for sprays and micellar waters. Used at low levels in most products, it supports product clarity and performance without altering texture significantly.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 3-7 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.
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

Enables thorough cleansing by lifting oils and impurities from skin and hair.

Stabilizes emulsions, ensuring consistent texture in lotions and creams.

Solubilizes fragrances and oils, creating clear, effective water-based formulas.

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 of foaming shampoos and body washes for reliable lather.
Those with very sensitive skin prone to irritation from surfactants.
Individuals with normal skin seeking efficient makeup removers.
Individuals concerned about ethoxylated compounds and impurities.
People preferring clear toners or sprays with dispersed active scents.
Users experiencing eye discomfort from rinse-off cleansers.

Safety Notes

  • Assessed safe for cosmetic use by CIR when formulated to avoid irritation and impurities.
  • EWG rates it moderate to high concern mainly due to potential contaminants like 1,4-dioxane.

Frequently Asked Questions about Octoxynol-40

What does Octoxynol-40 do in products?

It cleanses by reducing surface tension, emulsifies oils in water, and solubilizes fragrances for clear formulas.

Is Octoxynol-40 comedogenic?

Rated non-comedogenic, unlikely to clog pores.

What are safety considerations for Octoxynol-40?

Safe in cosmetics per reviews, but watch for irritation at high levels and possible impurities.