Ceteareth-25

CAS Number:

68439-49-6

Chemical Name: 

Ceteareth-25. Also known as Polyoxyethylene (25) Cetyl/Stearyl Ether, PEG-25 Cetyl/Stearyl Ether

Molecular Formula:

Complex mixture, derived from ethoxylated cetyl and stearyl alcohols with 25 moles of ethylene oxide

Molecular Weight:

Higher than Ceteareth-20 due to increased ethoxylation units (~ 2500 g/mol approx.)

EC Number:

 500-212-8 (same as Ceteareth family)

Common Form:

White to off-white waxy flakes or pellets , or waxy granules

Uses:

Ceteareth-25 is an advanced non-ionic emulsifier belonging to the same family as Ceteareth-20 but characterized by a higher number of ethylene oxide units (25 units compared to 20). It is widely used in cosmetics and personal care for its excellent ability to form stable oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions with enhanced thickening properties .

Primary Applications:

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

· Baby Care Products: Used in baby creams and lotions due to its high safety profile .

· Pharmaceuticals: Used as an excipient in topical formulations.

· Cleansers: Helps remove dirt and impurities from skin and hair .

What does Ceteareth-25 do in a formulation?

• Strong O/W Emulsifier: Primary function. With a high HLB value (16) , it reduces interfacial tension between oil and water to form stable, homogeneous oil-in-water emulsions. Capable of forming emulsions at room temperature.
• Emulsion & Dispersion Stabilizer: Acts as an effective protective colloid, stabilizing all kinds of dispersed systems.
• Solubilizer: Helps dissolve poorly water-soluble substances (such as essential oils and fragrances) into aqueous solutions.
• Gel-forming & Thickening Agent: Compared to Ceteareth-20, Ceteareth-25 has higher gel-forming and thickening properties, giving products a denser consistency.
• Dispersant: Ensures uniform distribution of active ingredients in formulations.
• Cleansing Agent: Removes impurities, dirt, and oils from skin and hair by surrounding particles and separating them.
• Foam Booster: Improves and stabilizes foam quality when used with anionic surfactants
• Moisturizer & Conditioner: Forms an occlusive layer on skin and hair surfaces, preventing excessive water evaporation, reducing itching and peeling.

Safety Profile:

· Hazard Classification: Considered safe for use in cosmetics at authorized concentrations . Rated as "Good" by Paula's Choice . The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) concluded it is safe when formulated to be non-irritating .

· Skin/Eye Contact: May cause mild skin or eye irritation at very high concentrations . At typical use levels, considered a low irritant .

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

· Ingestion: Safe at concentrations used in cosmetics.

· Contamination Concerns: Important Warning: Like Ceteareth-20, there is high concern regarding potential contamination with toxic impurities such as ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane during manufacturing . High-quality products (e.g., BASF's Eumulgin® B 25) adhere to strict limits for these impurities and carry certifications such as Clean at Sephora and EU Ecolabel .

· Environmental Impact: PEG derivatives are subject to environmental scrutiny. Some sources indicate the material is biodegradable and not suspected to be bioaccumulative .

· Required PPE: Safety glasses and dust mask when handling raw material in manufacturing or laboratory settings. Chemical-resistant gloves recommended .

· Storage and Handling Note: Store in a cool, dry place (room temperature) away from moisture. Keep container tightly closed . Shelf life: 12-24 months .

Technical profile: