INCI: Ceteareth-20
Country: India
Description:
Ceteareth-20 is an ethoxylated mixture of cetyl and stearyl alcohols with 20 moles of ethylene oxide. It is a nonionic emulsifier and thickening agent, commonly used in formulations requiring water and oil phases. The product functions as an emulsifier, solubilizer, and skin-softening agent.
Composition:
Ceteareth-20 is composed of cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol ethoxylated with ethylene oxide. This gives it both hydrophilic and hydrophobic properties, making it an efficient emulsifier and surface-active agent.
Properties:
• Universal emulsifier for O/W emulsions
• Enhances viscosity, making products creamier
• Softens and smooths the skin
• Adds sheen and silkiness to hair
• Stabilizes dispersed active ingredients
• Works as a surfactant, lowering surface tension between liquids or between liquids and solids
• Improves the uniform application of active ingredients in formulations
• Widely used in cleansing and washing products
Functionality:
Ceteareth-20 acts as a surface-active agent, helping to emulsify oils and water, and facilitating the removal of dirt and oil from the skin. In addition, it stabilizes emulsions by preventing phase separation, enhancing the overall performance and consistency of products.
Safety:
Ceteareth-20 is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic products. However, it should not be used on damaged skin, as polyethoxylated ingredients may cause irritation under such conditions. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) expert panel has assessed Ceteareth-20 as safe for use in cosmetics but highlighted concerns related to the potential contamination of 1,4-dioxane, a by-product of ethoxylation, which is a possible carcinogen. Therefore, adequate purification processes are necessary to remove any 1,4-dioxane before use in formulations.
Applications:
• Bath products (foams, oils, tablets, salts)
• Eye makeup (liners, eyeshadows, mascaras)
• Facial care (blush, foundations, masks, anti-wrinkle treatments)
• Hair care (conditioners, sprays, styling products, rinses, bleaches, shampoos)
• Nail care (creams, lotions)
• Cleansing (creams, lotions, liquids)
• Tanning products (gels, creams, liquids)
Primary Function:
Cleansing and emulsifying agent
Usage Instructions:
Ceteareth-20 should be heated to 60–70°C in the oil phase of your formulations. Ensure that it is fully dissolved in the oil phase (mix if necessary) to minimize the risk of graininess in the final product.
Usage Rate:
• Up to 6% in leave-on systems
• Up to 30% in hair care products
Storage:
Store at temperatures below 35°C in the original sealed packaging, protected from moisture.
