C9-11 Pareth-3
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Nonionic Surfactant
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Not Clean
Alcohols, C9-11, ethoxylated (3 mol EO average molar ratio)
CAS #
68439-46-3
Form
Liquid
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
Traditional Use
Synthetic nonionic surfactant created in the 20th century by ethoxylation of isoparaffin hydrocarbons. Used in cleansing and emulsifying cosmetic formulations.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️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