Ceteareth-20
Non-ionic emulsifier based on cetearyl alcohol and ethylene oxide. A universal component for oil-in-water emulsions in creams, lotions, and hair conditioners. Forms stable emulsions with a silky after-feel. One of the most widely used emulsifiers in mass-market cosmetics.
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
- Use with caution
- Sensitive
About this ingredient
Ceteareth-20 is a non-ionic PEG emulsifier produced by ethoxylation of cetearyl alcohol (a mix of cetyl C16 and stearyl C18). The number 20 = ethylene oxide units, determining water solubility and HLB (~15.5). Where applied. Oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions – creams, lotions, hair products, cleansing milks. Use concentration 1-5%. A universal mass-cosmetic emulsifier: cheap, stable, well tolerated. In Spain – in Babaria, Sesderma Express Crema Antiarrugas, Mádara base lines. Manufacturing. Ethoxylation is the reaction of an alcohol with ethylene oxide under pressure. By-product: 1,4-dioxane, a potential carcinogen (IARC Group 2B). Quality PEG emulsifiers have 1,4-dioxane reduced to <10 ppm (FDA standard) via vacuum stripping. Evidence base. A functional ingredient with no direct skin effect. Formula efficacy depends on the active ingredients (humectants, antioxidants, protective factors). Safety. CIR confirmed PEG emulsifier safety at use concentrations provided 1,4-dioxane is removed. SCCS imposed no restrictions. Hypoallergenic. On damaged skin (atopic dermatitis, eczema, burns) systemic absorption may rise – PEG-free formulas are preferable for these patients. 1,4-Dioxane controversy. EU 2018 tightened impurity rules: manufacturers must report <10 ppm content. Safe in mass and pharmacy cosmetics. In "eco" cosmetics, ceteareth-20 is replaced by cetearyl glucoside or sorbitan olivate. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. Systemic absorption through intact skin is minimal. Acceptable at any stage. Suitable for. Universal. Atopics and eczema patients should pick formulas marked "PEG-free" or "sin PEG" (Spanish marketing).
Frequently asked questions
Is Ceteareth-20 safe during pregnancy?
Ceteareth-20 is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Ceteareth-20 for?
Ceteareth-20 suits: normal, dry, combination, oily. Use with caution in: sensitive.
What is Ceteareth-20 and what does it do in cosmetics?
Non-ionic emulsifier based on cetearyl alcohol and ethylene oxide.
What's the INCI name for Ceteareth-20?
The INCI name is Ceteareth-20. It may also appear as: Polyoxyethylene Cetyl Stearyl Ether.
See Ceteareth-20 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
Other functional ingredients
Ceteareth-23, Ceteareth-25, Ceteareth-33, Ceteareth-6, Heptyl Glucoside, PEG-20 Stearate, Pyruvic Acid, Trideceth-10
Published: · updated: