What it is
This is a nonionic ethoxylated surfactant produced by attaching an average of about 9 ethylene oxide units to a branched C12-13 fatty alcohol blend. Its intermediate degree of ethoxylation gives it a balanced affinity for both oil and water, making it useful for emulsifying and solubilizing oily ingredients into aqueous formulas. It is often used as part of a multi-component emulsifier system in creams and lotions.
Safety & warnings
Ethoxylated fatty alcohols of this class are widely used and generally well tolerated in leave-on products. Manufacturing should control for trace 1,4-dioxane, a byproduct of the ethoxylation process; this concerns raw-material quality rather than the ingredient's inherent properties. No notable comedogenicity is established.
Origin & sourcing
Synthetic; produced by ethoxylating a C12-13 fatty alcohol, which may be derived from petrochemical or plant-based feedstocks.
Questions everyone asks
What role does it play in a formula?
It works as a nonionic emulsifier and solubilizer, helping disperse oils into water and keeping the emulsion uniform and stable.
Is it a UV filter?
No. It contributes to the texture and stability of the product but offers no UV protection.