Helps blend oil and water ingredients together so the product feels smooth and creamy on your skin.
Effective at 10.5%
Formula
C56H114O21
Mol. Weight
1123.50
CAS #
9004-95-9
Form
Liquid
State
White solid; mp = 32-34 deg C; [Sigma-Aldrich MSDS]
See origin →
Functions
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Surfactant Emulsifying
Strengthens Barrier
Mixes oil and water
Traditional Use
Developed in the mid-20th century as a polyethylene glycol ether of cetyl alcohol. Created to replace traditional animal-derived emulsifiers and surfactants in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.