Octyldodeceth-16

What is Octyldodeceth-16?

Octyldodeceth-16 is a synthetic nonionic surfactant from the ethoxylated alcohol group. It forms by attaching 16 units of ethylene oxide to octyldodecanol, a branched-chain fatty alcohol often sourced from plant oils like coconut. This structure provides hydrophilic and lipophilic balance, allowing it to bridge oil and water. Commonly found in rinse-off cleansers, shampoos, body washes, and leave-on lotions or creams, it acts by lowering surface tension to lift soils, generate foam, and disperse ingredients evenly. In emulsions, it forms a protective film around oil droplets, promoting phase stability and smooth application. Its relatively high ethoxylation degree enhances water solubility and mildness, making it suitable for daily personal care formulations across various product types.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1 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

Supports gentle foaming and dirt removal in cleansers without stripping skin.

Stabilizes oil-water mixtures for consistent texture in creams and lotions.

Aids even product distribution and application in formulations.

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 using daily cleansers needing mild surfactant action.
Those preferring formulations without ethoxylated ingredients.
Users of emulsified moisturizers or washes for stable products.
Individuals sensitive to surfactants in general.
People with normal to oily skin preferring non-comedogenic options.
People avoiding synthetic emulsifiers on principle.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low hazard by EWG, indicating minimal concerns in typical use.
  • Considered safe in cosmetics by regulatory reviews when impurities are controlled.

Frequently Asked Questions about Octyldodeceth-16

What does Octyldodeceth-16 do in products?

It cleanses by reducing surface tension, foams mildly, and emulsifies for stable blends.

Is Octyldodeceth-16 safe for skin?

Yes, it has a low EWG score and is deemed safe in cosmetic concentrations.

Does it cause irritation or breakouts?

Low irritation potential and zero comedogenic rating from assessments.