Ingredient guide
Ceteareth-20 in Face Moisturizer
What Ceteareth-20 does in face moisturizer and how it's regulated.
About Ceteareth-20
An ethoxylated fatty alcohol used as an emulsifier and surfactant in creams, lotions, and other cosmetic formulations.
Why brands use it in face moisturizer
Effective oil-in-water emulsifier that creates stable, creamy formulations. Helps blend oil and water phases and improves product texture.
Regulatory status
- US FDA: Approved for cosmetic use. No required testing for 1,4-dioxane or ethylene oxide contamination.
- European Union: Not on the EU prohibited list (some ingredients have concentration limits)
- Canada: Not restricted
Common alternatives
Other ingredients formulators use for a similar job in face moisturizer:
cetearyl olivate/sorbitan olivate (Olivem 1000)
glyceryl stearate (non-ethoxylated)
beeswax
lecithin
FAQ
What is Ceteareth-20?
An ethoxylated fatty alcohol used as an emulsifier and surfactant in creams, lotions, and other cosmetic formulations.
Why is Ceteareth-20 used in face moisturizer?
Effective oil-in-water emulsifier that creates stable, creamy formulations. Helps blend oil and water phases and improves product texture.
How is Ceteareth-20 regulated?
Approved for cosmetic use. No required testing for 1,4-dioxane or ethylene oxide contamination.
Does Numbrrrz lip balm contain Ceteareth-20?
No. Numbrrrz is organic coconut oil, organic beeswax, organic jojoba oil and vitamin E, plus organic essential oils or flavoring in the scented versions. That is a formulation choice, not a judgment about other products.
