Ceteareth-20
Ceteareth-20 is ethoxylated Cetearyl alcohol, produced by adding an average of 20 ethylene oxide molecules to the fatty alcohol to increase its water-soluble portion. This chemical modification converts the primarily oil-soluble, emollient fatty alcohol into an effective emulsifier molecule. It is a common functional ingredient used to keep oil-loving and water-loving ingredients together, and also helps stabilize and thicken formulations such as creams.
Ceteareth-20 functions primarily as an emulsifier and surfactant, keeping oil and water phases mixed in creams and lotions. It also contributes to product stability and texture by thickening formulations. Its benefits are functional rather than directly skin-active.
Has an irritancy rating of 3 (on an unspecified scale) according to the source, suggesting moderate potential for irritation in some users.
