What Is Ceteareth-24?
Ceteareth-24 is a blend of cetyl and stearyl fatty alcohols that has been reacted with ethylene oxide so that, on average, 24 ethylene oxide units are attached to each molecule. These fatty alcohols can come from plant oils like coconut or palm oil or from synthetic sources. The finished ingredient is a waxy, off-white solid that dissolves in water and oil, making it useful in many personal care formulas.
The use of ethoxylated fatty alcohols in cosmetics started in the mid-20th century when formulators looked for ingredients that could mix oil and water smoothly. Over time Ceteareth-24 became a favorite because its chain length offers a good balance of gentleness and performance.
Manufacturing begins with the fatty alcohols, which are purified then fed into a reactor with ethylene oxide gas. Careful temperature and pressure control lets the gas attach to the alcohols in a predictable way, giving the desired average of 24 units. The product is then cooled, filtered and milled into flakes or pellets.
You will most often find Ceteareth-24 in moisturizers, night creams, masks, anti-aging serums, sunscreens, hair conditioners and cleansing lotions. It helps these products feel smooth, spread evenly and rinse off without leaving a heavy film.
Ceteareth-24’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multifunctional ingredient improves both the texture of a product and how well it cleans the skin or hair.
- Cleansing: Ceteareth-24 can surround dirt and oil so they lift away when you rinse. It gives a gentle but effective cleanse that does not strip the skin.
- Emulsifying: By holding water and oil together it creates stable, creamy formulas that resist separating in the jar and feel silky when applied.
Who Can Use Ceteareth-24
Ceteareth-24 is generally well tolerated by normal, dry, oily and combination skin because it is mild and helps keep formulas balanced. People with very sensitive or compromised skin may want to be cautious, since any emulsifier can occasionally cause redness or stinging on fragile skin. Acne-prone users usually do fine with it, though extremely congested skin might prefer lighter emulsifiers.
Whether the ingredient is suitable for vegans or vegetarians depends on its source. If the fatty alcohols come from coconut or palm oil it is plant based, but some suppliers start with animal-derived fats. Brands that market to vegans will normally state that their Ceteareth-24 is vegetable sourced, so check the label or reach out to the company if that matters to you.
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel concludes that ethoxylated fatty alcohols like Ceteareth-24 are safe for use during pregnancy and while breastfeeding when used as directed. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should confirm any skincare routine with a healthcare professional.
Ceteareth-24 does not make skin more prone to sunburn and it does not interfere with sunscreen filters. It is odorless, works in a wide pH range and rinses clean, which makes it a versatile choice in most cosmetic products.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Ceteareth-24 vary from person to person. The points below describe potential side effects that could occur, but most people will not notice any problems when the ingredient is used properly in a finished product.
- Skin irritation: Rare cases of redness, itching or a warm sensation may appear, especially on very sensitive skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis: Although uncommon, some individuals can develop a true allergy leading to localized rash or swelling
- Eye discomfort: If a product containing Ceteareth-24 gets into the eyes it may cause temporary stinging or watering
- Dryness or tightness: Over-cleansing formulas with high levels of emulsifiers can strip natural oils resulting in a dry feel
- Enhanced penetration of other ingredients: By altering the skin’s surface lipids it may increase uptake of actives which could amplify their own side effects
- Contaminant concerns: Poorly purified raw material can contain trace 1,4-dioxane though reputable manufacturers keep this well below safety limits
If any uncomfortable reaction develops stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 2 out of 5. Ceteareth-24 is derived from fatty alcohols, which on their own can sometimes clog pores, but the ethoxylation process makes the molecules more water-friendly and less likely to build up inside follicles. Most studies and anecdotal reports place it on the lower end of the scale, meaning it poses only a slight risk of causing comedones in the average user. In well-balanced formulas that rinse away cleanly it is unlikely to trigger breakouts, so most acne-prone individuals can use products containing Ceteareth-24 without major concern. Very oily or severely congested skin types may still prefer lighter emulsifiers.
Formulation level, the presence of heavier oils and overall rinse-off properties will influence how the ingredient behaves on skin. A leave-on cream packed with occlusive agents may feel heavier than a lightweight lotion or cleanser that quickly washes away.
Summary
Ceteareth-24 acts as a cleanser and emulsifier, letting water combine with oils so dirt lifts off easily and lotions stay smooth instead of separating. Its chain length and 24 units of ethylene oxide give it a sweet spot of mildness and performance that formulators appreciate. You will see it in moisturizers, masks, sunscreens, conditioners and gentle cleansers because it creates a silky texture and helps products rinse without residue.
While not as famous as icons like glycerin or hyaluronic acid, Ceteareth-24 remains a behind-the-scenes workhorse that shows up in many mid-priced and high-end lines. It is considered safe by regulatory bodies when used within normal concentrations and reputable suppliers keep potential contaminants well below safety limits. As with any new skincare ingredient it is wise to patch test first to be sure your skin agrees with it.