murphyCeteth-5
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: 9004-95-9, Cetocire, CETOMACROGOL, Romopal O, Collone AC, Lubrol W, Nikkol BC, Ethosperse CL20, Lipocol C2, Ceteth 2
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Clean
OriginDerived from cetyl alcohol and ethylene oxide, both petroleum-derived synthetic chemicals. Synthesized through ethoxylation, where ethylene oxide chains are added to cetyl alcohol.
Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), .alpha.-hexadecyl-.omega.-hydroxy- (5 mol EO average molar ratio)
Formula
C56H114O21
Mol. Weight
1123.50
CAS #
9004-95-9, 4478-97-1
Form
Liquid
State
White solid; mp = 32-34 deg C; [Sigma-Aldrich MSDS]
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
Restricted By
Concentration Guide
CIR's newest survey reports no concentration of use.
CIR · 2010 survey
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR