At a glance
- CAS number
- 68439-49-6
- INCI name
- Ceteareth-20
- Function
- emulsifier, surfactant, solubilizer
- Typical use level
- 1%–5%
- Solubility
- water
- Stable pH
- 4–9
CAS number and synonyms are sourced from PubChem. Function, usage levels, pH and compatibility are AI-assisted formulation guidance — verify against your supplier's technical data sheet and applicable regulations before use.
Also known as
PEG-20 Cetearyl Ether Cetostearyl Alcohol Ethoxylate Cetearyl Alcohol EO-20 Emulgade 1000 NI Brij 78
Compatibility
Works well with:
Cetearyl Alcohol Glycerin Carbomer Dimethicone Shea Butter Niacinamide
Use caution with:
High concentrations of electrolytes Phenoxyethanol at high levels may reduce HLB efficiency
Ceteareth-20 is an O/W emulsifier that works best when paired with a co-emulsifier such as Cetearyl Alcohol to build stable, structured emulsions. High electrolyte concentrations can disrupt the hydration shell of the polyethylene glycol chains, potentially destabilizing emulsions. It is broadly compatible with most cosmetic actives and polymeric thickeners at typical use levels.
Formulation notes
Ceteareth-20 is a nonionic ethoxylated fatty alcohol emulsifier with an HLB of approximately 15.7, making it well-suited for oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions such as lotions and creams. It stabilizes emulsions by reducing interfacial tension between oil and water phases and is valued for its mildness, broad pH tolerance, and compatibility with sensitive-skin formulations. Formulators should note that ethoxylated ingredients may carry trace levels of 1,4-dioxane, so sourcing from suppliers who use purification steps is recommended.
Frequently asked questions
What is Ceteareth-20?
Ceteareth-20 is a emulsifier, surfactant, solubilizer used in cosmetic and personal-care formulation. Typical use level is 1%–5%. It is water-soluble. Stable in the pH 4–9 range.
What is Ceteareth-20 used for?
Ceteareth-20 is used as emulsifier, surfactant, solubilizer in cosmetic and personal-care formulations.
What is the typical use level of Ceteareth-20?
Ceteareth-20 is typically used at 1%–5% in the finished formulation. Always confirm against your supplier's technical data sheet.
What is the CAS number of Ceteareth-20?
The CAS registry number for Ceteareth-20 is 68439-49-6. Its INCI name is Ceteareth-20.
At what pH is Ceteareth-20 stable?
Ceteareth-20 is generally stable in the pH 4–9 range.
What ingredients are compatible with Ceteareth-20?
Ceteareth-20 works well with Cetearyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Carbomer, Dimethicone, Shea Butter, Niacinamide. Use caution when combining it with High concentrations of electrolytes, Phenoxyethanol at high levels may reduce HLB efficiency.
Related ingredients
- Cetearyl GlucosideEmulsifier
- PEG-100 StearateEmulsifier
- Polysorbate 20Emulsifier
- Polysorbate 80Emulsifier
- Behenyl PEG/PPG-20/20 DimethiconeEmulsifier
- Cetyl PhosphateEmulsifier