AKA: Polidocanol, 3055-99-0, Nonaethylene glycol monododecyl ether, Asclera, Aethoxy-sklerol, Nonaethylene glycol monolauryl ether, VARITHENA, 2-[2-[2-[2-[2-[2-[2-[2-(2-dodecoxyethoxy)ethoxy]ethoxy]ethoxy]ethoxy]ethoxy]ethoxy]ethoxy]ethanol, PEG-9 lauryl ether, Macrogol 9 lauryl ether
WHAT IS IT? Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Not Clean
Origin Derived from lauryl alcohol, typically produced from coconut or palm oil through synthetic chemistry. Synthesized through ethoxylation, where ethylene oxide is added to lauryl alcohol to create the polyethylene glycol ether.
3,6,9,12,15,18,21,24,27-Nonaoxanonatriacontan-1-ol
CAS #
3055-99-0, 9002-92-0, 68439-50-9
IS IT FOR ME? Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
WHAT’S IT DO? Functions
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
CAN I TRUST THIS? The paper trail
🛡️ Safety-assessed 1 review →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
IS IT CLEAN? CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
2 studies / 2 not sensitizing / plus 2 case reports (CIR 581)
Not an Eye Irritant
1 study / 1 not irritating (CIR 581)
Skin Irritant in Testing
4 studies / 4 irritating / reactions slight to moderate / plus 2 case reports (CIR 581)
Concentration Guide
0% 50% 100%
CIR reported use · report published 2012
EU limit: 3% in leave-on, 4% in rinse-off products. Regulation (EU) No 483/2013 (CosIng Annex III/257).
Regulatory Status
JAPAN ⚠ restricted
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR
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