Octyldodeceth-16
A nonionic surfactant and solubilizer. It dissolves oils in the water phase and stabilizes the formula. 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
Octyldodeceth-16 (INCI: Octyldodeceth-16) is a non-ionic surfactant that works as a solubilizer. It dissolves oils, fragrances and oil-soluble actives in the water phase and helps keep the formula clear and stable. This is a purely functional ingredient, not a skincare active. Its value lies in product stability and appearance: it brings together components that would otherwise separate. It has no action on the skin beyond that technical role, so there is no treatment efficacy to speak of. Applied topically it has no systemic relevance and can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Tolerance is good, with low irritation potential and low allergy risk, which makes it suitable for sensitive skin. At usual solubilizer levels it does not dry noticeably. The final behavior of the product depends on the whole system rather than on this single ingredient.
Frequently asked questions
Is Octyldodeceth-16 safe during pregnancy?
Octyldodeceth-16 is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Octyldodeceth-16 for?
Octyldodeceth-16 suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Octyldodeceth-16 and what does it do in cosmetics?
A nonionic surfactant and solubilizer.
What's the INCI name for Octyldodeceth-16?
The INCI name is Octyldodeceth-16.
See Octyldodeceth-16 in a product composition right on the store page
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Similar role in the formula
Other functional ingredients
Octyldodecyl Xyloside, Olea Europaea Seed Powder, Oleth-10, Oleth-20, Polysorbate 21, Stearyl Beeswax, C30-45 Alkyl Methicone, Ethoxydiglycol
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