murphyNonoxynol-13
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Nonylphenol ethoxylate, Surfactant
Synthetic
Skin Conditioner
Not Clean
OriginDerived from fatty alcohols, typically sourced from coconut or palm oil through hydrogenation. Synthesized by ethoxylation of nonylphenol, adding polyethylene glycol chains to create the surfactant.
Nonoxynol-13 is a cosmetic ingredient. Assessed as safe by the CIR.
Form
Liquid
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Caution
Functions
Skin Conditioning
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewednone on file
⚖️Regulatory0 listings
🛡️Safety-assessed1 review →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Caution
CIR Safety Findings
Mixed Skin Irritation Results
1 study / 1 mixed / reactions mild (CIR 695)
Eye Irritant in Testing
1 study / 1 irritating / reactions severe (CIR 695)
Concentration Guide
CIR lists it as not reported to be in use.
CIR · report published 2015
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR