What Is Ceteareth-60 Myristyl Glycol?
Ceteareth-60 Myristyl Glycol is a synthetic compound created by reacting natural fatty alcohols from coconut or palm oil with ethylene oxide. The result is a long chain of 60 repeating ethoxy units attached to a myristyl (14-carbon) backbone, giving the ingredient both water-loving and oil-loving parts. Nonionic surfactants like this first gained commercial use in the 1970s when formulators sought gentler alternatives to traditional soaps. Today, large-scale production involves purifying plant-derived fatty alcohols, running them through controlled ethoxylation reactors and finishing with strict quality checks to ensure consistency and low impurity levels.
Because it can link oil and water, Ceteareth-60 Myristyl Glycol shows up in many personal care products. You will often find it in facial cleansers, makeup removers, sheet masks, moisturizing creams, anti-aging serums, hair conditioners and even some sunscreens where it helps stabilize textures and improve rinse-off.
Ceteareth-60 Myristyl Glycol’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In formulas this ingredient brings two main benefits
- Cleansing: Its surfactant nature lifts dirt, oil and makeup from the skin or hair then allows them to be rinsed away with water for a fresh feel without harshness
- Emulsifying: It binds water and oil phases so lotions stay smooth, creams stay thick and active ingredients remain evenly distributed from the first use to the last
Who Can Use Ceteareth-60 Myristyl Glycol
This ingredient is considered non-sensitizing and light on the skin so it fits most skin types including dry, balanced, oily and mature. It is especially handy for combination skin because it cleans without stripping while helping creams stay smooth. Very sensitive or easily irritated skin might want to monitor for any tingling since all surfactants can be a touch drying if used in high amounts, but the risk is low in well-made products.
The fatty alcohols used to make Ceteareth-60 Myristyl Glycol are almost always sourced from coconut or palm oil which means finished material is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. If you prefer to avoid palm, look for brands that specify coconut-derived supply.
Current safety reviews have found no problems for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Systemic absorption through intact skin is minimal so it is not expected to reach the bloodstream in meaningful amounts. That said this is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should double-check any skincare product with a healthcare professional to be extra safe.
Ceteareth-60 Myristyl Glycol does not increase photosensitivity so you do not have to worry about extra sunburn risk. It is also fragrance free and gluten free which is useful for those with related sensitivities.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions can differ from one person to the next. The issues listed below are only potential outcomes and they are unlikely for the average user when the ingredient is included at normal cosmetic levels.
- Mild skin dryness or tightness if the formula contains a high percentage and is left on the skin for a long time
- Redness or stinging on very sensitive or broken skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis in rare cases for people who are reactive to fatty alcohol derivatives
- Temporary eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
If you notice any of these issues stop using the product and seek medical advice if discomfort persists
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5 (very low)
Ceteareth-60 Myristyl Glycol is highly water soluble thanks to its long chain of ethoxy groups which keeps it from forming pore-clogging films on the skin. Studies and formulator reports rarely link this ingredient to comedones or acne flare-ups at normal use levels. Its cleansing action also helps lift away excess sebum rather than trapping it. Therefore most people who are prone to breakouts can use products containing this emulsifier without major concern.
Keep in mind that overall pore-clogging potential depends on the full formula, so heavier oils or waxes paired with it could still be an issue.
Summary
Ceteareth-60 Myristyl Glycol is mainly valued for two jobs: it acts as a gentle cleanser that loosens dirt and makeup, and an emulsifier that binds water with oils so creams, lotions and serums stay smooth and stable. It pulls this off by combining a fatty alcohol tail that loves oil with a long string of ethoxy units that love water, letting it sit comfortably between the two phases.
While not a household name, it is a quiet workhorse in many mainstream and indie formulations ranging from facial cleansers to sheet masks. Its popularity with chemists comes from reliability, mildness and compatibility with a wide range of actives.
Current safety reviews show a very low irritation and toxicity profile when used as intended in cosmetics. As with any new skincare ingredient it is smart to do a quick patch test before slathering it all over your face simply to rule out personal sensitivities.