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NONYL NONOXYNOL-100
Safety score · 0–100
Fine
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
About
Nonyl Nonoxynol-100 is a cosmetic ingredient used in product formulations. Exercise caution due to limited available safety data.
NONYL NONOXYNOL-100 is a nonionic surfactant based on nonylphenol with approximately 100 moles of ethylene oxide. The very high EO degree dramatically reduces the irritation potential typical of nonylphenol ethoxylates and increases water solubility. However, EU regulatory attention on the entire nonylphenol ethoxylate class means this ingredient faces increasing scrutiny under environmental regulations. Under Cosmetics Regulation Annex III, it is listed as usable but requires a full safety assessment including environmental risk evaluation, a requirement that is growing in importance under EU Green Chemistry initiatives.
Skin benefits
- Powerful emulsifier enabling stable incorporation of challenging oil phases
- High EO degree makes it significantly gentler than low-EO nonylphenol ethoxylates
Known concerns
- Nonylphenol metabolites are persistent environmental pollutants with endocrine-disrupting potential
- EU environmental regulations may increasingly restrict nonylphenol ethoxylate class
- Even at high EO degree, metabolic breakdown can produce concerning intermediate metabolites
References
EU CosIng database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry — regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.
Related others
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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.