CETEARETH-12
CETEARETH-12 is a non-ionic surfactant made by ethoxylating C16–18 fatty alcohols. Its fatty portion has an affinity for oils, while its ethoxylated portion has an affinity for water; that dual character allows it to bring together phases that would otherwise separate.
CETEARETH-12: what it is
CETEARETH-12 is a non-ionic surfactant made by ethoxylating C16–18 fatty alcohols. Its fatty portion has an affinity for oils, while its ethoxylated portion has an affinity for water; that dual character allows it to bring together phases that would otherwise separate.
The number 12 refers to an average number of ethylene oxide units attached to those alcohols, rather than one substance with an identical composition in every batch. It differs from other ceteareths by its average degree of ethoxylation, which changes the balance between water and oil affinity and therefore its behavior in a formula.
CETEARETH-12: what it does in cosmetics
In lotions, creams, and other products containing both water and oil, CETEARETH-12 helps form and maintain an emulsion. In everyday terms, it helps keep the oily phase dispersed through the water phase instead of allowing the product to separate or look uneven.
It may also be part of a cleansing base, helping oily residues detach so they can be carried away with rinse water. Formulation studies examined CETEARETH-12 as a non-ionic emulsifier together with other components; that supports its technical role, but it does not show that the ingredient by itself treats dryness, acne, dark spots, or other skin conditions.
Products containing this ingredient
See which products include it and the name used in each composition.
