Octoxynol-9

What is Octoxynol-9?

Octoxynol-9 is a synthetic nonionic surfactant chemically known as octylphenoxy polyethoxyethanol with nine ethylene oxide units. Produced by ethoxylating octylphenol, it serves as a versatile ingredient in rinse-off cosmetics such as shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, and makeup removers, as well as some leave-on emulsions. It works by reducing surface tension between liquids, oils, and solids, which lifts dirt and sebum for easy rinsing. In formulations, it stabilizes oil-in-water emulsions by creating a protective film at the interface, preventing separation and maintaining smooth textures in creams and lotions. Its foaming properties enhance lathering in cleansing products, improving user experience without stripping natural moisture excessively.

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

Benefits

Provides thorough cleansing by effectively removing dirt and excess oil.

Stabilizes emulsions for consistent product texture in lotions and creams.

Supports foaming action for satisfying lather in washes and shampoos.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
People with normal to oily skin seeking effective daily cleansers.
Those with sensitive skin prone to irritation from surfactants.
Individuals using shampoos or body washes for reliable foaming and rinse-off.
People concerned about potential endocrine-disrupting breakdown products.
Users of emulsion-based products like light lotions needing stable formulas.
Individuals preferring eco-friendly ingredients due to environmental persistence.

Safety Notes

  • May contain trace impurities like 1,4-dioxane from manufacturing; choose purified products.
  • Rated moderate hazard by some databases due to contamination risks and use limits.

Frequently Asked Questions about Octoxynol-9

What does Octoxynol-9 do in products?

It acts as a surfactant to cleanse by reducing surface tension, emulsifies oil-water mixes, and aids foaming.

Is Octoxynol-9 safe for skin?

Generally safe in rinse-off cosmetics at low levels, but monitor for irritation in sensitive individuals.

Why is it in cleansers and shampoos?

Its ability to lift oils and stabilize formulas makes it ideal for effective washing and lathering.