What it is
Isoceteth-25 is an ethoxylated fatty alcohol made by reacting branched isocetyl alcohol with about 25 units of ethylene oxide. The high degree of ethoxylation makes it water-soluble and an effective nonionic surfactant, used to emulsify oils into water-based systems and to solubilize small amounts of oily or fragrance components into clear formulas. It is a common processing aid in lotions, sun care, and rinse-off products.
Safety & warnings
Isoceteth-25 is generally well tolerated as used in cosmetics. Like other PEG-type (ethoxylated) ingredients, manufacturing controls are used to limit residual reaction byproducts such as 1,4-dioxane.
Origin & sourcing
It is a synthetic ingredient produced by ethoxylating isocetyl alcohol, a branched fatty alcohol.
Questions everyone asks
What does isoceteth-25 do?
It is a nonionic surfactant and emulsifier that helps mix oil and water and solubilize oily or fragrance components into clear formulas.
Is it synthetic?
Yes. It is made by ethoxylating the branched fatty alcohol isocetyl alcohol.