What it is
Isoceteth-10 is the polyethylene glycol ether of isocetyl alcohol, with an average of about 10 ethylene oxide units. As a nonionic surfactant it functions as an emulsifier and solubilizer, helping blend oil and water phases and disperse poorly soluble materials in a formula. It is commonly used in emulsions and creams, including sunscreen bases.
Safety & warnings
Isoceteth-10 is generally well tolerated as used in cosmetics. As with other ethoxylated surfactants, very high levels can contribute to mild transient irritation in sensitive users. It is not a fragrance allergen.
Origin & sourcing
Synthetic. It is manufactured by ethoxylating isocetyl alcohol, a branched fatty alcohol, with ethylene oxide.
Questions everyone asks
What does isoceteth-10 do in a formula?
It is a nonionic surfactant that acts as an emulsifier and solubilizer, helping combine oil and water and disperse hard-to-dissolve ingredients.
Is isoceteth-10 natural or synthetic?
It is synthetic, made by ethoxylating the branched fatty alcohol isocetyl alcohol with ethylene oxide.