Skip to content

Other

NONOXYNOL-5

CAS 9016-45-9 (generic)/ 26027-38-3 (generic)/ 37205-87-1 (generic)/ 26264-02-8/ 20636-48-0
21

Safety score · 0–100

Caution

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

A low ethoxylated variant of the Nonoxynol family with significant endocrine disruption risk through nonylphenol release, and banned from cosmetic use in the EU.

Nonoxynol-5 is a nonionic surfactant with an average of 5 ethylene oxide units, placing it in the lower end of the ethoxylation range. Its relatively low hydrophilic-lipophilic balance makes it prone to environmental degradation to nonylphenol, a potent endocrine disruptor. EU REACH Annex XVII entry 46a restricts all nonylphenol ethoxylates in cosmetic products, and Nonoxynol-5's low ethoxylation degree places it among the most problematic variants in the series.

Known concerns

  • Category 1 endocrine disruptor potential (via nonylphenol)
  • EU Annex XVII ban in cosmetic products
  • Aquatic toxicity
  • Bioaccumulation potential
  • Degradation to nonylphenol

References

EU

EU CosIng database

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

Related others

22
(4-Ethoxyphenyl)(3-(4-fluoro-3-phenoxyphenyl)propyl)dimethylsilane
Other
 22
1,3-Benzenediamine, 4-methyl-, hydrochloride (1:2)
Other
 22
1,4-BUTANEDIOL DIMETHACRYLATE
Other
 20
1-Butyl-3-(N-crotonoylsulphanilyl)urea
Other
 20
1-NAPHTHALENEACETIC ACID
Other
 22
1-NITROPROPANE
Other
 20
2-Nitro-9H-carbazole
Other
 22
3-Chloro-4-(3-fluorobenzyloxy)aniline
Other

Check your shelf

Find NONOXYNOL-5 in your products.

Scan any cosmetic product with LuxSense to see if it contains NONOXYNOL-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, so always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.