What Is Cetoleth-22?
Cetoleth-22 is a synthetic fatty alcohol derived from a blend of long-chain unsaturated fatty acids, mainly cetyl (C16) and stearyl (C18) sources that have been reacted with ethylene oxide to add roughly 22 ethoxy groups per molecule. This process, called ethoxylation, turns the naturally waxy fatty alcohols into a water-compatible ingredient that can mix oil and water with ease. First introduced in the late 20th century when formulators were looking for milder alternatives to older detergents, Cetoleth-22 quickly found a place in personal care because it offered good cleaning power without the harshness of sulfates.
Manufacturing starts with plant-sourced or occasionally animal-derived fatty alcohols that are purified then pumped into a reactor where controlled amounts of ethylene oxide gas are added under pressure. The finished material is a cream-colored waxy solid that melts into a clear liquid when warmed, making it easy to dose into formulations.
You will most often spot Cetoleth-22 in rinse-off cleansers like facial washes, body washes and makeup removers. Its emulsifying talent also makes it valuable in leave-on products such as lightweight lotions, sunscreens, hair conditioners, styling creams and some sheet mask serums where it helps keep oil and water smoothly blended.
Cetoleth-22’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators lean on Cetoleth-22 for a couple of key jobs that improve both product performance and user experience
- Cleansing – Lowers surface tension so water can lift away dirt oil and makeup more effectively delivering a gentle clean that does not overly strip skin or hair
- Emulsifying – Acts as a bridge between oil and water phases creating stable silky emulsions that resist separation which means creams feel smoother have better spreadability and stay uniform throughout their shelf life
Who Can Use Cetoleth-22
Cetoleth-22 is generally well tolerated by all major skin types including oily, combination, normal and dry skin because it is mild and non stripping. Sensitive skin usually does fine with it too since the molecule has a low irritation profile, though very reactive skin should still be alert to any new cleanser or lotion that contains multiple surfactants.
The ingredient may be sourced from plants such as coconut or palm but some suppliers still use animal-derived fatty alcohols. Fully vegan or vegetarian shoppers should look for products that state plant origin or carry a certified vegan logo.
Current safety data shows no issues for topical use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review their routine with a doctor or midwife just to be safe.
Cetoleth-22 does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight so daily SPF use remains important but no extra precautions are needed because of this ingredient.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to Cetoleth-22 can differ from person to person. The following is a list of potential side effects that might occur, though most users will never experience them when the ingredient is included at standard levels by a reputable brand.
- Mild skin irritation
- Redness or stinging on very sensitive skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals already sensitized to ethoxylated surfactants
- Eye irritation if a cleanser accidentally gets into the eyes
- Scalp buildup or hair weighed down when used in high amounts in hair products
If any adverse reaction occurs stop using the product immediately and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5. Cetoleth-22 is an ethoxylated fatty alcohol that dissolves easily in water so it tends to rinse away instead of sitting in pores. Its large molecular size also keeps it from squeezing into follicle openings where clogs start. Because of this it is usually considered safe for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin. Formulas that pair it with heavy oils or waxes could raise the overall pore-clogging risk so always look at the full ingredient list.
Summary
Cetoleth-22 acts mainly as a gentle cleanser and an emulsifier. It loosens dirt oil and makeup by lowering surface tension then keeps oil and water blended so lotions and washes stay smooth and stable. While not a buzzword ingredient it is a quiet workhorse found in many facial cleansers body washes light lotions sunscreens and hair products because it balances mildness with performance.
Current research and cosmetic use history show Cetoleth-22 to be low risk for irritation or sensitization when used at normal levels. Still each person’s skin is unique so it is wise to patch test any new product that contains it before full use.