Skip to content

Emulsifier

CETEARETH-5

CAS 68439-49-6 Updated
58

Safety score · 0–100

Moderate

Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.

About

A short-chain ethoxylated cetearyl alcohol used as an emulsifier. More irritating than higher Ceteareth grades; PEG part needs dioxane purification.

Function

SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYINGSURFACTANT - CLEANSING

Skin benefits

  • Effective non-ionic emulsifier
  • Stable in O/W systems
  • Inexpensive workhorse
  • Compatible with anionic systems

Known concerns

  • Low-EO ethoxylate — higher irritation than Ceteareth-20+
  • PEG ethoxylation — dioxane purification needed
  • Penetration enhancer effect

References

EU

EU CosIng database

European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry — regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.

Related emulsifiers

58
C12-13 ALKETH-4
Emulsifier
 58
CETEARETH-3
Emulsifier
 58
CETEARETH-55
Emulsifier
 58
DI-C12-15 ALKETH-4 PHOSPHATE
Emulsifier
 58
DI-C12-15 PARETH-2 PHOSPHATE
Emulsifier
 58
ISOSTEARAMIDOMORPHOLINE STEARATE
Emulsifier
 58
OLETH-2
Emulsifier
 58
PEG-16 TALLATE
Emulsifier

Check your shelf

Find CETEARETH-5 in your products.

Scan any cosmetic product with LuxSense to see if it contains CETEARETH-5 and get a full ingredient breakdown with safety scores.

This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve — always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.