Isoceteth-10
A non-ionic emulsifier and co-surfactant. It blends oil and water and helps dissolve actives. 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
Isoceteth-10 is a non-ionic ethoxylated surfactant derived from a branched fatty alcohol. In cosmetics it serves two roles: emulsifier and co-surfactant. It binds the oil and water phases and helps dissolve and disperse poorly water-soluble ingredients, keeping the formula uniform. It is a functional component, not a treatment active. It gives no direct benefit to the skin; its job is to keep the rest of the formula stable and easy to apply. Without it, many emulsions and cleansers would separate or turn cloudy. For topical use there is no meaningful systemic absorption, so it can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding without restriction. Tolerance is good. Irritation and allergy potential are low, and as a surfactant it is rated mild (MILD), so it dries the skin far less than harsh surfactants. It suits sensitive skin and rarely causes problems at usual concentrations.
Frequently asked questions
Is Isoceteth-10 safe during pregnancy?
Isoceteth-10 is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Isoceteth-10 for?
Isoceteth-10 suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Isoceteth-10 and what does it do in cosmetics?
A non-ionic emulsifier and co-surfactant.
What's the INCI name for Isoceteth-10?
The INCI name is Isoceteth-10.
See Isoceteth-10 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
Isoceteth-20, Isodecyl Salicylate, Isododecane, Isoeugenyl Acetate, Phenethyl Alcohol, Sodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Acacia Senegal Gum, CI 77007 (Ultramarines)
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