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NONOXYNOL-7

CAS 68412-54-4/ 9016-45-9 (generic)/ 26027-38-3 (generic)/ 37205-87-1 (generic)/ 27177-03-3
22

Safety score · 0–100

Caution

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

About

This low ethoxylated Nonoxynol is strongly linked to endocrine disruption due to its rapid breakdown to nonylphenol, and is banned from cosmetic use in the EU.

Nonoxynol-7 is a nonionic surfactant of the ethoxylated nonylphenyl ether series with an average of 7 ethylene oxide units. With a low degree of ethoxylation, it is relatively lipophilic and has been shown to degrade at notable rates to nonylphenol, a Category 1 endocrine disruptor under EU criteria. EU REACH Annex XVII (entry 46a) prohibits the use of nonylphenol ethoxylates in cosmetic products, and Nonoxynol-7 falls squarely within the most regulated portion of this series.

Known concerns

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

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.