Ceteareth-3: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: June 25, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Ceteareth-3?

Ceteareth-3 is a man-made ingredient created by reacting a mix of cetyl and stearyl alcohols with a small amount of ethylene oxide, averaging three units per molecule. Those fatty alcohols usually come from coconut or palm oil, though they can also be produced synthetically. The result is a nonionic compound that blends oily and watery substances with ease.

The wider family of ceteareth ingredients first appeared in cosmetic labs around the 1950s when formulators sought mild alternatives to soap-based emulsifiers. Over time Ceteareth-3 earned a place in everyday beauty items because its short chain of ethylene oxide keeps it light yet effective.

Manufacturing involves purifying the fatty alcohols, then feeding them into a reactor with ethylene oxide under heat and pressure. Afterward, the mixture is neutralized, filtered and checked for purity before it heads into product tanks.

You will spot Ceteareth-3 in face and body lotions, moisturizers, night creams, rinse-off cleansers, clay or sheet masks, hair conditioners, baby wipes and even some SPF products where a stable, smooth texture matters.

Ceteareth-3’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

In formulas Ceteareth-3 pulls its weight in more than one way.

  • Cleansing: Its surfactant nature loosens daily grime and excess oil so they rinse away more easily, helping cleansers feel mild and non-stripping.
  • Emulsifying: It keeps water and oil phases evenly blended, giving creams and lotions a consistent texture that feels silky on the skin and stays stable over time.

Who Can Use Ceteareth-3

Ceteareth-3 is generally well tolerated by most skin types including normal, dry, combination and oily skin because it is mild and does not leave a heavy residue. Very sensitive or compromised skin might prefer formulas with lower surfactant levels if barrier irritation is already an issue because any surfactant, even gentle ones, can feel drying when overused.

The fatty alcohols that make up Ceteareth-3 are usually sourced from coconut or palm oil or produced synthetically, not from animals, so products using the plant-based or synthetic grade are typically suitable for vegetarians and vegans. Those following a strict lifestyle may wish to verify that the finished product carries clear plant sourcing information or vegan labeling.

Current data shows no specific concerns for pregnant or breastfeeding women when Ceteareth-3 is applied topically in cosmetic concentrations. Still this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should show their doctor the full ingredient list of any skincare they plan to use just to be safe.

The ingredient does not increase photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. Standard sun protection is still essential for healthy skin, but there is no special photo caution attached to Ceteareth-3.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Ceteareth-3 differ from person to person. The issues listed below are possible yet uncommon for the average user when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.

  • Skin irritation – stinging or redness may occur on very sensitive or damaged skin, especially in leave-on products with higher percentages
  • Allergic contact dermatitis – rare allergy can develop to the fatty alcohol or residual processing agents leading to itching or small bumps
  • Eye irritation – contact with the eyes can cause watering or mild burning until rinsed away
  • Increased penetration of other actives – as an emulsifier it can slightly boost the absorption of accompanying ingredients which could intensify their effects on reactive skin
  • Trace 1,4-dioxane contamination – if manufacturing cleanup is poor minute amounts of this by-product may remain though reputable brands test to keep levels well below safety limits

If any discomfort, rash or persistent irritation develops stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1 / 5 (low)

Ceteareth-3 is made from lightweight fatty alcohols capped with only three ethylene oxide units, so it spreads easily without forming a heavy film that can trap oil and debris. Studies and user reports rarely link it to clogged pores, especially because it often appears at modest percentages in formulas. For those prone to acne or breakouts, this ingredient is generally considered safe in both rinse-off and leave-on products, provided the overall formula is non-greasy. Very oily skin may still prefer lighter textures, but the ingredient itself scores low on the pore-clogging scale.

Extra note: comedogenicity always depends on the full formulation, so a product heavy in rich plant oils could still feel occlusive even if Ceteareth-3 is present.

Summary

Ceteareth-3 acts as a mild cleanser and a reliable emulsifier. As a surfactant it loosens dirt and oil for easy rinsing, and as an emulsifier it holds water and oil together so creams and lotions stay smooth and stable. This dual role keeps textures light and pleasant while boosting product longevity on the shelf.

It is a quiet workhorse rather than a headline-grabbing star; you will see it in everyday moisturizers, cleansers and wipes where consistent performance matters more than marketing buzz. Formulators like its versatility and cost-effectiveness, so it has remained a staple since the 1950s even as trendier ingredients come and go.

Safety reviews find Ceteareth-3 non-sensitizing for most skin types when used at normal cosmetic levels. While side effects are rare, every skin is unique so it is wise to patch test any new product that contains this or any other surfactant before full-face use.

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