murphyCeteareth-22
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: PEG-22 Cetearyl Ether
Plant-Derived
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Clean
OriginTypically derived from coconut or palm kernel oils, which are natural plant-based sources. Produced through ethoxylation, where ethylene oxide is added to cetearyl alcohol to increase water solubility.
C16-18 alcohols, ethoxylated (22 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.
Viscosity Controlling
Cleansing Surfactant
Emulsifier
Controls Viscosity
Lifts away dirt and oil
Mixes oil and water
Controls product thickness
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
Concentration Guide
Leave-on1%
Rinse-offNot reported
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · 2010 survey
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR