Ingredient review
Ceteareth-23
INCI: Ceteareth-23
A reliable emulsifier that helps water and oil mix, making creams and lotions stable and smooth.
In plain English
Ceteareth-23 is a synthetic ingredient that acts like a bridge between water and oil. In a moisturizer, it stops the cream from separating into watery and oily layers, so you get a consistent, smooth texture every time you use it. It's a type of surfactant, which means it can also help cleanse the skin by lifting dirt and oil.
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-23 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-23.
- 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-23 is a polyethylene glycol (PEG) ether of cetearyl alcohol, a mixture of fatty alcohols. It belongs to the ceteareth family, where the number 23 indicates the average length of the PEG chain. It is produced synthetically and is widely used in cosmetics as an emulsifier.
How it works
When added to a formula, Ceteareth-23 positions itself at the boundary between water and oil droplets. Its water-loving (hydrophilic) head stays in the water phase, while its oil-loving (lipophilic) tail anchors into the oil phase. This stabilizes the emulsion, preventing separation and giving the product a uniform, creamy consistency.
Pros
Stable emulsions
Helps creams and lotions stay mixed and smooth, so you get a consistent product every time.
Gentle on skin
Generally non-irritating and non-comedogenic, making it suitable for most skin types.
Cons and cautions
Potential trace contaminants
During manufacturing, trace amounts of 1,4-dioxane (a possible carcinogen) can form, though reputable brands purify their ingredients to very low levels.
Synthetic origin
Not natural or biodegradable, which may be a concern for environmentally conscious consumers.
Best for
- Anyone using standard moisturizers or cleansers
- People who prefer stable, well-formulated products
Use caution if
- Those with known sensitivity to PEG compounds or ethoxylated ingredients
Usage tips
Safety summary
Ceteareth-23 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. The main concern is potential contamination with 1,4-dioxane, but reputable manufacturers keep levels well below safety limits. It is generally non-irritating and non-comedogenic.
Research notes
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel reviewed ceteareth compounds and concluded they are safe for use in cosmetics. Studies show low irritation and sensitization potential. Trace 1,4-dioxane is a manufacturing impurity, not a property of the ingredient itself.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1–5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics by the FDA and EU. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has deemed it safe as used in rinse-off and leave-on products.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Cleansers, Sunscreens, Hair conditioners
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic PEG compound, it is not readily biodegradable. However, wastewater treatment can reduce its environmental impact.
Good to know
- The number 23 refers to the average number of ethylene oxide units in the molecule.
- Ceteareth-23 is often used alongside cetearyl alcohol for better emulsion stability.
Common questions
What is Ceteareth-23 in beauty products?
Ceteareth-23 is a synthetic ingredient that acts like a bridge between water and oil. In a moisturizer, it stops the cream from separating into watery and oily layers, so you get a consistent, smooth texture every time you use it. It's a type of surfactant, which means it can also help cleanse the skin by lifting dirt and oil.
What does Ceteareth-23 do in a beauty product?
When added to a formula, Ceteareth-23 positions itself at the boundary between water and oil droplets. Its water-loving (hydrophilic) head stays in the water phase, while its oil-loving (lipophilic) tail anchors into the oil phase. This stabilizes the emulsion, preventing separation and giving the product a uniform, creamy consistency.
Is Ceteareth-23 safe for most people?
Ceteareth-23 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. The main concern is potential contamination with 1,4-dioxane, but reputable manufacturers keep levels well below safety limits. It is generally non-irritating and non-comedogenic.
Who should be careful with Ceteareth-23?
Those with known sensitivity to PEG compounds or ethoxylated ingredients
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.