murphyCeteareth-15
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: PEG-15 Cetearyl Ether
Plant-Derived
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Clean
OriginDerived from coconut or palm kernel oils, which are natural plant-based fatty acids. Produced through ethoxylation, adding ethylene oxide chains to cetearyl alcohol to create surfactant properties.
C16-18 alcohols, ethoxylated (15 mol EO average molar ratio)
CAS #
68439-49-6
Form
Liquid
Skin Types
●all-skin-types, gentle
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-assessed3 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
EWG
2
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not an Eye Irritant
1 study / 1 not irritating (CIR 581)
Not a Sensitizer
2 studies / 2 not sensitizing (CIR 35 and 581)
Mixed Skin Irritation Results
3 studies / 1 irritating / 2 mixed / reactions minimal (CIR 35 and 581)
Concentration Guide
Leave-on0.2–10%
Rinse-off1–2%
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · 2010 survey
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR