Ingredient review
Sodium Diceteareth-10 Phosphate
INCI: SODIUM DICETEARETH-10 PHOSPHATE
A gentle synthetic emulsifier that helps mix oil and water in cleansers and creams, with a low risk of irritation.
In plain English
Sodium Diceteareth-10 Phosphate is a man-made ingredient that acts like a bridge between oil and water. In skincare, it helps products like lotions and cleansers stay mixed and feel smooth. It is considered mild and is often used in formulas that need to be gentle on the 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
Sodium Diceteareth-10 Phosphate 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 Sodium Diceteareth-10 Phosphate.
- 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
A synthetic phosphate ester surfactant derived from cetearyl alcohol and ethylene oxide, neutralized with sodium. It is part of the broader class of ethoxylated surfactants used for emulsification.
How it works
It reduces the surface tension between oil and water, allowing them to blend into a stable emulsion. This helps create creamy textures and ensures that active ingredients are evenly distributed in the product.
Pros
Gentle on skin
Sodium Diceteareth-10 Phosphate is considered low-irritation, making it suitable for sensitive skin types when used in appropriate concentrations.
Effective emulsifier
It helps create stable, smooth emulsions that improve the feel and performance of creams and lotions.
Cons and cautions
Potential contaminant concern
As an ethoxylated ingredient, it may contain trace amounts of 1,4-dioxane, a possible carcinogen, though levels are typically low and regulated.
Not natural
It is a synthetic ingredient, which may not appeal to consumers seeking natural or organic skincare.
Best for
- People with normal to dry skin
- Those looking for gentle, non-foaming cleansers or moisturizers
Use caution if
- Individuals with known sensitivity to ethoxylated ingredients
- Those seeking fully natural or biodegradable formulations
Usage tips
Safety summary
Sodium Diceteareth-10 Phosphate is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. The main concern is trace 1,4-dioxane, which is monitored and limited by regulators. Overall, it has a low irritation and comedogenic risk.
Research notes
Research on this specific ingredient is limited, but the broader class of ethoxylated surfactants has been studied for safety. Regulatory bodies like the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) have reviewed similar ingredients and found them safe when used as directed.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and many other regions. The potential contaminant 1,4-dioxane is regulated to low levels in finished products.
- Common uses
- Cleansers, Moisturizers, Sunscreens, Makeup removers
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic ethoxylated surfactant, it may not be readily biodegradable. Its environmental impact depends on formulation and disposal.
Good to know
- Sodium Diceteareth-10 Phosphate is often used in combination with other emulsifiers to achieve the desired texture
- It is not typically found in high concentrations in leave-on products
Common questions
What is Sodium Diceteareth-10 Phosphate in beauty products?
Sodium Diceteareth-10 Phosphate is a man-made ingredient that acts like a bridge between oil and water. In skincare, it helps products like lotions and cleansers stay mixed and feel smooth. It is considered mild and is often used in formulas that need to be gentle on the skin.
What does Sodium Diceteareth-10 Phosphate do in a beauty product?
It reduces the surface tension between oil and water, allowing them to blend into a stable emulsion. This helps create creamy textures and ensures that active ingredients are evenly distributed in the product.
Is Sodium Diceteareth-10 Phosphate safe for most people?
Sodium Diceteareth-10 Phosphate is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. The main concern is trace 1,4-dioxane, which is monitored and limited by regulators. Overall, it has a low irritation and comedogenic risk.
Who should be careful with Sodium Diceteareth-10 Phosphate?
Individuals with known sensitivity to ethoxylated ingredients Those seeking fully natural or biodegradable 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.