Surfactant / emulsifier
NONYL NONOXYNOL-8 PHOSPHATE
Safety score · 0–100
Moderate
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
Nonyl Nonoxynol-8 Phosphate is a phosphate-ester surfactant derived from nonylphenol ethoxylates. It can clean and emulsify, but its nonylphenol backbone raises endocrine and environmental concerns.
Skin benefits
- Acts as an emulsifier and cleansing surfactant in personal care formulas
- Helps stabilize oil-in-water systems and lift dirt from skin or hair
Known concerns
- Nonylphenol ethoxylate derivative, a class flagged as endocrine disruptors under EU REACH
- Aquatic toxicity and persistence concerns for nonylphenol residues
- Potential mild skin and eye irritation typical of phosphate-ester surfactants
- Largely phased out of EU cosmetics due to environmental and hormonal concerns
References
EU CosIng database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry: regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.
Related surfactant / emulsifiers
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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.