Buteth-3
A non-ionic emulsifier. It helps blend the oil and water phases. Well tolerated.
Supporting ingredient
It gives a product its texture, stability or shelf life. It has no claimed effect on the skin, so an efficacy tier does not apply. What is known about its safety is below
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Buteth-3 (INCI: Buteth-3) is a non-ionic emulsifier made from butyl alcohol ethoxylated with three ethylene oxide units. Its job in a formula is to help combine the oil and water phases and improve the solubilizing of some ingredients. It is a functional component, not a care active. Its role is limited to the structure and stability of the product. It brings no cosmetic effect of its own on skin; it is there so the formula works well technically. Topically it has no systemic relevance, so it can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Tolerance is good, the allergy potential is low and it counts as a mild surfactant, so at the usual levels it rarely dries. On sensitive skin it usually behaves without trouble within a balanced formula.
Frequently asked questions
Is Buteth-3 safe during pregnancy?
Buteth-3 is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Buteth-3 for?
Buteth-3 suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Buteth-3 and what does it do in cosmetics?
A non-ionic emulsifier.
What's the INCI name for Buteth-3?
The INCI name is Buteth-3.
See Buteth-3 in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Similar role in the formula
Published: · updated: