Ceteareth-20

CAS Number:

68439-49-6

Chemical Name: 

Ceteareth-20. Also known as Polyoxyethylene Cetyl/Stearyl ether, Alcohols C16-18, Ethoxylated

Molecular Formula:

Complex mixture, derived from ethoxylated cetyl and stearyl alcohols

Molecular Weight:

~ 2000 g/mol

EC Number:

 500-212-8

Common Form:

White to off-white waxy flakes or pellets, odorless or with a faint characteristic odor

Uses:

Ceteareth-20 is a versatile non-ionic emulsifier derived from natural (vegetable) fatty alcohols and synthetic ethylene oxide . It is widely used in cosmetics, personal care, and pharmaceutical formulations for its excellent ability to form stable oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions .

Primary Applications:

· Cosmetics & Personal Care: The largest application. Used in creams (moisturizers, sunscreens, foundations, after-sun, antiperspirants), lotions, face and body care, hair care (shampoos, conditioners, masks), and baby care products .

· Pharmaceuticals: Used as an excipient in pharmaceutical formulations, particularly in topical, oral, and injectable preparations, functioning as a solubilizer and stabilizer to improve drug bioavailability .

· Industrial & Household Detergents: Used as a surfactant in detergent formulations, and as a cleaning, scouring, wetting, and dispersing agent in textile formulations .

· Cleansers & Makeup Removers: Helps remove dirt and makeup due to its cleansing properties .

What does Ceteareth-20   do in a formulation?

• O/W Emulsifier: Primary function. With a high HLB value (15-17), it reduces interfacial tension between oil and water to form stable, homogeneous oil-in-water emulsions.
• Emulsion & Dispersion Stabilizer: Acts as an effective protective colloid, stabilizing dispersed systems and preventing component separation.
• Solubilizer: Helps dissolve poorly water-soluble substances (e.g., essential oils, plant extracts, fragrances) into aqueous solutions.
• Thickener & Rheology Modifier: Improves product consistency and increases viscosity.
• Dispersant: Ensures uniform distribution of active ingredients in spray formulations such as antiseptic sprays.
• Skin Penetration Enhancer: Due to its PEG-derived structure, it may enhance the permeability of active ingredients through the skin.
• Cleaning Agent: Removes impurities and dirt from skin and hair
• Foam Booster: Improves and stabilizes foam quality when used with anionic surfactants .

Safety Profile:

· Hazard Classification: Considered safe for use in cosmetics according to global organizations, with no restrictions on its use . Not classified as hazardous under GHS in normal uses .

· Skin/Eye Contact: May cause mild irritation at very high concentrations . At typical use levels, it is considered non-irritating, non-comedogenic, and suitable for acne-prone skin .

· Inhalation: Powder dust may irritate the respiratory tract. Avoid dust inhalation during manufacturing.

· Ingestion: Safe at typical use levels, with very low toxicity.

· Contamination Concerns: Classified as an ingredient of concern due to potential contamination with toxic impurities such as ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane during manufacturing. High-quality products adhere to strict limits for these impurities (<1 ppm and <5 ppm respectively) .

· Environmental Impact: Environmental regulations closely scrutinize PEG derivatives for biodegradability and impurity removal .

· Required PPE: Safety glasses and dust mask when handling raw material in manufacturing or laboratory settings. Chemical-resistant gloves recommended. No special requirements for end consumers .

· Storage and Handling Note: Store in a cool, dry place (room temperature) away from moisture and direct sunlight. Keep container tightly closed. Avoid high temperatures and incompatible materials .

Technical profile: