Cetearyl Glucoside
Emulsifier from coconut fatty alcohols and corn glucose. Forms gentle O/W systems with a liquid-crystal structure mimicking intercellular skin lipids.
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, Oily, Combination, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Cetearyl Glucoside is a non-ionic emulsifier of the "green" generation, made by condensing cetearyl alcohol (from coconut oil) with glucose (from corn starch). Fully plant-derived, biodegradable, PEG-free. An alternative to ceteareth-20 in eco and organic cosmetics. Where applied. O/W emulsions in eco-certified brands (Ecocert, Cosmos): Mádara, Weleda, Cattier, Logona, Spanish Mimitika, Mantra Naturals. Also in premium La Roche-Posay Toleriane (sensitive skin) and Avène Eau Thermale. Technology. Forms liquid-crystal emulsions: molecules assemble into lamellar structures that mimic stratum corneum intercellular lipids. Result: a stable emulsion with light feel and even spread, not weighing skin down. Evidence base. A functional ingredient. No direct clinical effect of its own, but liquid-crystal formula structure spreads better and reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL) compared to standard emulsions (Savic 2009). Safety. CIR confirmed safety. SCCS imposed no restrictions. Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic. Allergic contact dermatitis described in isolated cases. PEG-free – suitable for eczema and atopic dermatitis patients without elevated systemic absorption risk. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. Acceptable at any stage on any area, including breast and nipples during breastfeeding. One of the "cleanest" emulsifiers for pregnant patients who avoid PEGs by choice. Suitable for. Sensitive, atopic skin, eczema, post-procedure care. Found in natural and organic creams.
Frequently asked questions
Is Cetearyl Glucoside safe during pregnancy?
Cetearyl Glucoside is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Cetearyl Glucoside for?
Cetearyl Glucoside suits: normal, dry, oily, combination, sensitive.
What is Cetearyl Glucoside and what does it do in cosmetics?
Emulsifier from coconut fatty alcohols and corn glucose.
What's the INCI name for Cetearyl Glucoside?
The INCI name is Cetearyl Glucoside.
See Cetearyl Glucoside 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
Cetearyl Wheat Straw Glycosides, Ceteth-20, Ceteth-20 Phosphate, Cetrimonium Bromide, Hydrated Silica, PEG-40 Stearate, Saponaria Officinalis Leaf/Root Extract, Triisopropanolamine
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