murphyBeheneth-15
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Beheneth-3, 297176-96-6, PEG-3 behenyl ether, Triethylene glycol behenyl ether, Ethanol
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Not Clean
OriginDerived from fatty alcohols or fatty acid derivatives, typically sourced from petrochemicals or plant oils. Synthesized through ethoxylation, adding polyethylene glycol chains to create a nonionic surfactant.
Docosanol, ethoxylated, 15 mol EO (average molar ratio)
Formula
C28H58O4
Mol. Weight
458.80
CAS #
26636-40-8
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Functions
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Cleansing Surfactant
Emulsifier
Removes Impurities
Mixes Oil & Water
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewednone on file
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed1 review →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
Concentration Guide
CIR lists it as not reported to be in use.
CIR · report published 2012
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR