C11-21 Pareth-3
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Polyoxyethylene alkyl ether
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Not Clean
OriginDerived from petroleum-based paraffin hydrocarbons and ethylene oxide, representing the synthetic surfactant chemical family. Synthesized through ethoxylation of long-chain paraffin alcohols with ethylene oxide under catalytic conditions.
Alcohols, C11-21, ethoxylated (3 mol EO average molar ratio)
CAS #
246538-82-9
Form
Liquid
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.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR
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