Ingredient review
Ceteareth-13
INCI: Ceteareth-13
A reliable emulsifier that keeps your lotions and creams smooth and stable, with a low risk of irritation.
In plain English
Ceteareth-13 is a man-made ingredient that helps water and oil mix together in products like moisturizers and cleansers. Without emulsifiers like this, your lotion would separate into watery and oily layers. It also helps other ingredients spread evenly on your skin.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Ceteareth-13 is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Ceteareth-13.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
Ceteareth-13 is a synthetic emulsifier made from cetearyl alcohol (a fatty alcohol from plant or petroleum sources) reacted with ethylene oxide. It belongs to the ceteareth family of emulsifiers, which are widely used in cosmetics to stabilize oil-in-water emulsions.
How it works
Ceteareth-13 has a water-loving head and an oil-loving tail. When added to a formula, it positions itself at the boundary between oil and water droplets, reducing surface tension so the two phases stay mixed. This creates a smooth, uniform cream or lotion that doesn't separate over time.
Pros
Stable emulsions
Helps keep your moisturizer or lotion from separating into oil and water, so you get a consistent product every time.
Gentle on skin
Has a low irritation risk, making it suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin, when used at typical concentrations.
Cons and cautions
Processing concerns
Ceteareth-13 is made using ethylene oxide, a chemical that can be harmful during manufacturing. However, the finished ingredient is considered safe in cosmetics.
Not natural
It is a synthetic ingredient, so it may not appeal to those who prefer plant-based or naturally derived alternatives.
Best for
- Anyone using lotions, creams, or cleansers
- People with normal to combination skin
Use caution if
- Those with known sensitivity to ethoxylated ingredients
- People seeking fully natural or organic formulations
Usage tips
Safety summary
Ceteareth-13 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. The main concern is the use of ethylene oxide in its production, but the finished ingredient does not contain significant residues. Regulatory bodies like the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) have deemed it safe.
Research notes
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) expert panel has reviewed ceteareth compounds and concluded they are safe for use in cosmetics. Studies show low skin irritation and sensitization potential at typical use levels.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1% to 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics by the FDA and the European Commission, with no concentration restrictions in leave-on or rinse-off products.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Cleansers, Lotions, Creams
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic ethoxylated ingredient, it may have moderate biodegradability. Some consumers prefer plant-based emulsifiers for lower environmental impact.
Good to know
- Ceteareth-13 is often used alongside other ceteareth numbers (like ceteareth-20) to fine-tune texture.
- It is considered safe by major regulatory bodies when used as directed.
Common questions
What is Ceteareth-13 in beauty products?
Ceteareth-13 is a man-made ingredient that helps water and oil mix together in products like moisturizers and cleansers. Without emulsifiers like this, your lotion would separate into watery and oily layers. It also helps other ingredients spread evenly on your skin.
What does Ceteareth-13 do in a beauty product?
Ceteareth-13 has a water-loving head and an oil-loving tail. When added to a formula, it positions itself at the boundary between oil and water droplets, reducing surface tension so the two phases stay mixed. This creates a smooth, uniform cream or lotion that doesn't separate over time.
Is Ceteareth-13 safe for most people?
Ceteareth-13 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. The main concern is the use of ethylene oxide in its production, but the finished ingredient does not contain significant residues. Regulatory bodies like the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) have deemed it safe.
Who should be careful with Ceteareth-13?
Those with known sensitivity to ethoxylated ingredients People seeking fully natural or organic formulations
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.