What Is Ceteth-150?
Ceteth-150 is a synthetic compound made by attaching about 150 units of ethylene oxide to cetyl alcohol, a fatty alcohol that can be sourced from coconut or palm oil. The result is a large, water-loving molecule classified as a nonionic surfactant, meaning it helps water mix with oils and dirt without carrying an electrical charge. Developed in the mid-20th century as formulators searched for gentler cleansers than traditional soap, it quickly gained a spot in personal care products because it is effective yet mild on skin.
Manufacturing starts with purified cetyl alcohol, which is reacted with ethylene oxide gas under heat and pressure in a controlled reactor. The reaction is stopped when the average chain length reaches roughly 150 ethylene oxide units, then the product is cooled, filtered and tested for purity. The final material is a waxy solid that dissolves in water, making it easy to blend into both water-based and oil-in-water mixes.
You will most often see Ceteth-150 in facial cleansers, body washes, micellar waters, exfoliating scrubs and makeup removers. It can also appear in sheet mask serums, mild shampoo blends and shaving creams where a high-foam yet soft feel is desired.
Ceteth-150’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Ceteth-150 serves one main purpose in cosmetics, acting as a cleanser that helps lift away oil, sweat and makeup so they can be rinsed off with water. It creates a smooth, cushiony lather that spreads easily across the skin, leaving it feeling fresh without a tight or squeaky finish.
Who Can Use Ceteth-150
Ceteth-150 is generally considered suitable for all skin types, including oily, combination, normal and even some sensitive skin, because it is a mild nonionic surfactant that cleanses without stripping the natural barrier. Extremely reactive or eczema-prone complexions might prefer a simpler formula with fewer surfactants, but most people tolerate Ceteth-150 well when it is used at the low levels typical in finished products.
The ingredient can be produced from plant-derived cetyl alcohol so it is commonly found in vegan and vegetarian formulations. If a brand states that a product is vegan it usually means the cetyl alcohol base was sourced from coconut or palm rather than animal tallow.
No data suggest that topical Ceteth-150 poses a specific risk to pregnant or breastfeeding women. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should show their doctor any skincare product they plan to use, just to be safe.
Ceteth-150 does not increase photosensitivity so there is no added need for extra sun precautions beyond daily sunscreen use. It is also odorless and non-volatile which minimizes inhalation concerns in rinse-off products.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Ceteth-150 vary from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects, but they are uncommon when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Mild skin dryness or tightness
- Transient stinging or redness, especially on compromised skin
- Contact irritation around the eyes if the cleanser is not thoroughly rinsed
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitized to ethoxylated surfactants
- Enhanced penetration of other actives that could lead to secondary irritation
If any of these effects occur discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5. Ceteth-150 is a high-molecular-weight nonionic surfactant that dissolves fully in water and is typically used in rinse-off cleansers at low concentrations. Because it does not form an occlusive film or deposit fatty residues, its tendency to clog pores is minimal, earning it a near-non-comedogenic score. This makes it generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts. The fact that most formulas containing Ceteth-150 are washed away after use further lowers any pore-blocking risk.
While unlikely, very oily leave-on products containing multiple ethoxylated fatty alcohols could raise the overall comedogenic load, so the total formula still matters.
Summary
Ceteth-150 is primarily a cleansing agent, working by surrounding oils, sunscreen, sweat and makeup so they can be lifted off the skin with water. Its long ethylene oxide chain gives it strong water affinity while the cetyl alcohol tail anchors into oily grime, allowing for effective yet gentle removal without stripping the skin’s natural barrier.
The ingredient enjoys moderate popularity: it is not as famous as newer sulfate-free surfactants but it remains a reliable choice in facial cleansers, body washes and micellar waters where a soft, cushiony lather is desired.
Overall safety data show low irritation and very low comedogenic potential when used in standard rinse-off formulations. Still, skin can react differently from person to person so it is smart to patch test any new product that lists Ceteth-150 before incorporating it into a full routine.