Skip to content

Surfactant

NONOXYNOL-4 PHOSPHATE

Updated
50

Safety score · 0–100

Moderate

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

About

A nonylphenol-4 phosphate ester emulsifier. Nonylphenol ethoxylates are EU-recognized endocrine disruptors with significant aquatic toxicity — being phased out of modern cosmetic formulations.

Function

SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYINGSURFACTANT - HYDROTROPESURFACTANT - CLEANSING

Skin benefits

  • Effective phosphate ester emulsifier
  • Short-chain ethoxylate — lower 1,4-dioxane potential
  • Stable across pH range

Known concerns

  • Nonylphenol ethoxylate base — EU SVHC for endocrine disruption
  • Significant aquatic toxicity
  • EU restrictions on NPE surfactants in cosmetics

References

EU

EU CosIng database

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

Related surfactants

Check your shelf

Find NONOXYNOL-4 PHOSPHATE in your products.

Scan any cosmetic product with LuxSense to see if it contains NONOXYNOL-4 PHOSPHATE 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.