What Is Cetoleth-24?
Cetoleth-24 is a synthetic fatty alcohol made by reacting naturally sourced cetyl and oleyl alcohols with about 24 units of ethylene oxide. The result is a waxy, off-white solid that is water-dispersible yet still carries the rich, emollient feel of its parent oils. Chemists began using ethoxylated fatty alcohols like Cetoleth-24 in the late twentieth century when they were looking for mild, plant-derived cleansers to replace harsher soaps. Production starts with vegetable oils such as coconut or palm for the cetyl portion and olive or sunflower for the oleyl portion. These oils are split to obtain the fatty alcohols, which are then purified and run through a controlled ethoxylation process that fixes the average of 24 ethylene oxide units onto each alcohol chain. The finished ingredient shows up in face cleansers, micellar waters, rinse-off masks, exfoliating scrubs and even some lightweight lotions where formulators want gentle foaming plus a soft skin feel.
Cetoleth-24’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient is valued for what it does once water and oil meet on your skin
- Cleansing – Cetoleth-24 lowers the surface tension of water so it can mix with oil and dirt, helping them rinse away easily. It creates a mild foam, boosts spreadability and leaves skin feeling comfortable instead of stripped
Who Can Use Cetoleth-24
Cetoleth-24 is generally well tolerated by all common skin types including dry, normal, combination, oily and even many sensitive skins because its cleansing action is mild and non stripping. Those with very reactive skin conditions such as eczema or rosacea should still monitor how their skin feels since any surfactant has the potential to disturb a fragile barrier.
The ingredient is sourced from plant-based fatty alcohols so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians provided the finished formula does not contain animal-derived additives.
Current safety reviews show no specific hazards for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when Cetoleth-24 is used in rinse-off or leave-on cosmetics. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should ask a healthcare provider before adding new products to a routine.
Cetoleth-24 does not increase photosensitivity so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It also plays nicely with most other cosmetic ingredients and has no known issues with common actives like retinoids or vitamin C.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to Cetoleth-24 can vary from person to person. The points below outline potential, yet uncommon, side effects when the ingredient is applied topically. When properly formulated most users will not experience these issues.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness, itching or stinging
- Contact dermatitis in individuals who are allergic to ethoxylated ingredients
- Dryness or tightness if used in very high concentrations or combined with other strong surfactants
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
If any discomfort or adverse reaction occurs stop using the product and consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Cetoleth-24 is highly water dispersible and does not form the heavy, lingering film that more comedogenic fatty alcohols can leave behind. Its ethoxylated structure makes it rinse off easily which limits the chance of pore blockage. Because of this it scores a low 1 out of 5.
Most people who are prone to acne or breakouts can use products containing Cetoleth-24 without seeing clogged pores.
As with any surfactant rich formula, residue can build up if the product is not rinsed thoroughly so proper cleansing technique matters for the clearest results.
Summary
Cetoleth-24 is mainly added to cosmetics as a mild cleansing agent that helps water mix with oil and dirt so everything washes away smoothly. It also lends a soft, conditioned feel that keeps skin from feeling tight after rinsing.
You will spot Cetoleth-24 in facial cleansers, micellar waters, exfoliating scrubs and some lightweight lotions but it is not as ubiquitous as classic surfactants like sodium laureth sulfate. Brands that favor plant derived ingredients and gentle sensory profiles reach for it most often.
Current safety data classifies Cetoleth-24 as low risk for irritation or sensitization when used at normal cosmetic levels. Still, everyone’s skin is unique so it is smart to patch test any new product that features this ingredient before working it into a full routine.