Surfactant
OCTOXYNOL-5
Safety score · 0–100
Caution
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
An octylphenol ethoxylate surfactant from the same chemical family as nonoxynols. These materials raise endocrine disruption and environmental persistence concerns and are being phased out across the EU.
Skin benefits
- Acts as a nonionic surfactant or solubiliser
- Effective wetting agent at low use levels
Known concerns
- Octoxynols are octylphenol ethoxylates with recognised endocrine disruption concerns
- Alkylphenol ethoxylates are restricted or phased out in many EU applications
- Persistent in the environment, harmful to aquatic life
- Can carry trace 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide from manufacturing
- Largely replaced by safer non-APE surfactants in modern cosmetics
References
EU CosIng database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry: regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.
Related surfactants
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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.