INCI Name: Ceteareth-25
Appearance: White to off-white waxy flakes
HLB Value: ~16.0
Solubility: Soluble in water and alcohols; dispersible in oils
Recommended Use Level: 1% – 10%
Function: Emulsifier, solubilizer, thickener, cleansing system stabilizer
Ceteareth-25 is a non-ionic surfactant commonly used to emulsify and stabilize oil-in-water formulations. It is especially valued in clear gels, cleansing systems, and cream-gel hybrids for its ability to solubilize oils and active ingredients, and to increase product viscosity. Compatible with a wide pH range and various actives.
Ceteareth-25 is a high HLB (hydrophilic-lipophilic balance) emulsifier made by ethoxylating a mixture of cetyl and stearyl alcohols. It forms stable oil-in-water emulsions and clear gel systems, particularly useful in surfactant-rich or water-based products where solubilization of oils or active ingredients is required.
Ceteareth-25 is often blended with co-emulsifiers or fatty alcohols to adjust viscosity and improve emollience. For gel-based systems, use with a small oil phase and neutral polymers for best clarity and stability.
Add to the water phase or oil phase depending on system type. Heat to 70°C–75°C and stir until fully melted and incorporated.
It’s a nonionic surfactant and emulsifier, valued for solubilizing oils and fragrances into water systems and stabilizing high-oil emulsions. It’s the quiet backbone of cleansers, scrubs, and transparent toners.
Because it emulsifies oils and dirt so they rinse away cleanly, leaving skin smooth without greasy residue. It balances cleaning efficiency with a softer after-feel compared to harsher surfactants.
Yes. It’s often used in solubilizer blends to keep micellar waters, toners, and gels clear and stable even when essential oils or fragrances are added.
Ceteareth-25 is more hydrophilic, making it stronger at solubilizing and dispersing oils into water. Lower-chain versions tend to produce creamier emulsions, while 25 is the go-to for lighter and clearer systems.
Cloudiness means the solubilizer system is unbalanced. Ceteareth-25 improves clarity, but it usually works best in a blend with other solubilizers or mild surfactants. Adjusting the ratio of oil to solubilizer often clears the haze.
Without enough emulsification power, oils cling to the skin. Adding Ceteareth-25 ensures the oil phase disperses into a fine emulsion when water is added, so the cleanser rinses away completely.
Ceteareth-25 provides stronger stability in oil-rich formulas. If separation occurs, increasing its level slightly or pairing it with fatty alcohols or co-emulsifiers usually fixes the issue.
Ceteareth-25 is excellent for fragrance solubilization. It binds fragrance oils and disperses them evenly in water, keeping sprays, toners, and mists crystal clear and stable.
