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OCTOXYNOL-9

CAS 9002-93-1
40

Safety score · 0–100

Moderate

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

About

Octoxynol-9 is a cosmetic ingredient used in product formulations. Exercise caution due to limited available safety data.

Octoxynol-9 (CAS 9002-93-1) is a non-ionic surfactant consisting of octylphenol ethoxylated with 9 moles of ethylene oxide, widely known by its lab name Triton X-100. It functions as a solubiliser, emulsifier, and cleansing agent in cosmetics. However, it degrades to 4-tert-octylphenol, a known xenoestrogenic endocrine disruptor that mimics estrogen and can interfere with reproductive function. Alkylphenol ethoxylates (APEs) including octoxynol are restricted in several jurisdictions for environmental toxicity. The EU REACH regulation restricts nonylphenol ethoxylates, and similar scrutiny applies to octoxynol. Some cosmetic safety bodies recommend avoiding APE-based surfactants.

Skin benefits

  • Effective solubiliser and cleanser
  • Emulsification properties

Known concerns

  • Degrades to octylphenol — a known endocrine disruptor
  • Xenoestrogenic activity documented in multiple studies
  • Environmental persistence and aquatic toxicity
  • Potential 1,4-dioxane contamination from ethoxylation
  • Increasingly restricted/avoided in sustainable formulations

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.