Ingredient Directory
Low ConcernVegan Evaluator Flag

Ceteareth-20

Cetearyl alcohol ethoxylated (20 EO)

Safety Notes

Widely used O/W emulsifier; PEG-based, not COSMOS-permitted; check for 1,4-dioxane (ethoxylation byproduct); effective and stable emulsifier

Function & Common Use

Function

Emulsifier

Category

Emulsifier

Common In

Creams lotions

Origin

Synthetic

Concentration Limits

India (CDSCO)

No limit

EU Cosmetics Reg.

No limit

US FDA (21 CFR)

No specific 21 CFR cosmetic limit identified in source checked

Korea (MFDS)

No specific MFDS limit identified in source checked; verify if ingredient is used in a Korean functional cosmetic category

Pregnancy: No specific restriction identified in source checked; standard cosmetic use

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ceteareth-20 safe to use in skincare?

Ceteareth-20 has a Low concern rating from The Clean Sheet. Widely used O/W emulsifier; PEG-based, not COSMOS-permitted; check for 1,4-dioxane (ethoxylation byproduct); effective and stable emulsifier

Is Ceteareth-20 allowed in India?

Ceteareth-20 is currently classified as "Permitted" under Indian cosmetics regulations. No concentration limit is specified for India.

What is Ceteareth-20 used for in cosmetics?

Ceteareth-20 functions as: Emulsifier. It is commonly found in: Creams lotions.

TCS Assessment
Low Concern
Data Confidence
High
Based on peer-reviewed safety data, regulatory status, and expert review by The Clean Sheet panel.

Regulatory Status

India (CDSCO)
Permitted
EU
Permitted
US FDA
Permitted
Korea (MFDS)
Permitted
Australia (TGA)
Cosmetic ingredient; standard TGA cosmetic framework applies; no therapeutic goods listing required unless therapeutic claims are made
Canada (NHPID)
Not specifically listed as restricted cosmetic ingredient in NHPID source checked; standard Health Canada cosmetic notification applies

Identifiers

CAS68439-49-6
ECN/A

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