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NONOXYNOL-50

CAS 68412-54-4/ 9016-45-9 (generic)/ 26027-38-3 (generic)/ 37205-87-1 (generic)
51

Safety score · 0–100

Moderate

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

About

This high ethoxylation variant has a significantly safer toxicological profile than lower Nonoxynols, yet EU cosmetic regulations still restrict the entire nonylphenyl ethoxylate class uniformly.

Nonoxynol-50 is a polyethylene glycol mono(4-nonylphenyl) ether with an average of 50 ethylene oxide units. The extended ethoxylation chain makes this compound highly water-soluble, greatly reduces lipophilicity, and minimizes degradation to nonylphenol. Its aquatic toxicity is low. However, EU REACH Annex XVII entry 46a imposes a class-wide restriction on nonylphenol ethoxylates regardless of ethoxylation degree, reflecting the structural hazard of the alkylphenyl moiety.

Known concerns

  • EU REACH Annex XVII restriction in cosmetic products
  • Residual nonylphenyl structural concern
  • Trace aquatic toxicity
  • Environmental persistence at low concentrations

References

EU

EU CosIng database

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

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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.