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Catalog Number | CI-SC-0288 |
Product Name | Ceteareth-12 |
CAS | 68439-49-6 |
Structure | |
Description | Solid emulsifier for cosmetic formulations. Acts also as a surfactant. Used in O/W creams and lotions. |
Appearance | Off white waxy solid |
Application | Emulsions for skin and hair care products |
Storage | Store light-protected at a cool and dry place |
HS Code | 3402130000 |
INCI | Ceteareth-12 |
Uses | Recommended use level 1-5%. For external use only. |
Ceteareth-12, a polyoxyethylene-12 cetostearyl ether, is commonly utilized in personal care products as a non-ionic universal emulsifier, possessing a hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) value of 13.5. It is characterized by its white waxy semisolid form and slight odor, and it effectively disperses in hot water or ethanol. With a solidification point of 34-37ºC, Ceteareth-12 is particularly effective in creating oil-in-water emulsions for topical cosmetic applications. While it is generally safe for use, caution is advised as high concentrations may cause skin and eye irritation. It is important to note its incompatibility with certain substances, including iodides, phenolic compounds, salicylates, sulfonamides, tannins, benzocaine, tretinoin, and various oxidizers, which can affect its performance and safety profile.
What is Ceteareth-12 and what are its main properties?
Ceteareth-12 is a polyoxyethylene-12 cetostearyl ether, a compound that is a mixture of ethers derived from cetyl and stearyl alcohols combined with polyethylene glycol (approximately 12 units in length). It appears as a white, waxy, semisolid substance with a slight odor and is dispersible in hot water or ethanol. Its solidification point lies between 34-37ºC.
How is Ceteareth-12 used in personal care products?
In personal care applications, Ceteareth-12 serves as a non-ionic universal emulsifier, which means it helps to stabilize oil-in-water emulsions commonly found in cosmetic products. Its high Hydrophilic-Lipophilic Balance (HLB) value of 13.5 makes it highly effective for this purpose, especially in topical cosmetic emulsions.
Is Ceteareth-12 safe for use in cosmetics?
Ceteareth-12 is considered practically safe for use in cosmetics; however, at high concentrations, it can cause irritation to the skin and eyes. Care should be taken to use it within recommended concentrations to minimize potential irritation risks.
Are there any substances Ceteareth-12 should not be combined with?
Yes, Ceteareth-12 is incompatible with several substances, including iodides, phenolic compounds (like parabens), salicylates, sulfonamides, tannins, benzocaine, tretinoin, and various oxidizers. Parabens, in particular, can reduce its antimicrobial effectiveness, and care should be taken to avoid these combinations.