Oleth-30

What is Oleth-30?

Oleth-30 is a nonionic surfactant produced by ethoxylating oleyl alcohol, a long-chain fatty alcohol from plant or animal sources, with 30 ethylene oxide units. This modification imparts water solubility and amphiphilic properties, enabling it to bridge oil and water. Primarily used in rinse-off products like shampoos, body washes, and facial cleansers, as well as leave-on items such as lotions and sprays, it reduces surface tension to facilitate dirt removal via micelle formation. In fragranced formulas, it disperses essential oils and scents into aqueous bases for clarity and stability. Its emulsifying action supports creamy textures in emulsions, while its low comedogenic nature suits various skin types. Overall, it enhances product performance without residue buildup.

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:

Fragrance ingredient
Contributes scent character and/or masks base odors, shaping the overall sensory experience of the formula (subject to allergen and IFRA considerations).
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

Supports thorough cleansing by lifting oils and impurities for rinse-off.

Enables clear incorporation of fragrances into water-based products.

Helps create stable emulsions for smooth lotion textures.

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 daily foaming cleansers and shampoos.
Those sensitive to ethoxylated ingredients.
Individuals enjoying scented skincare and haircare items.
Preferers of natural, PEG-free cosmetics.
People seeking non-comedogenic surfactants in routines.
Individuals with highly reactive skin prone to irritation.

Safety Notes

  • EWG rates it 1-3, indicating low to moderate concern.
  • Cosmetic Ingredient Review affirms safety in typical concentrations.

Frequently Asked Questions about Oleth-30

What is Oleth-30 used for?

It acts as a surfactant, cleanser, fragrance solubilizer, and emulsifier in shampoos, washes, and lotions.

Is Oleth-30 comedogenic?

No, it has a comedogenic rating of 0, making it unlikely to clog pores.

How safe is Oleth-30 in products?

Rated low concern by EWG (1-3) and safe per Cosmetic Ingredient Review assessments.