Octoxynol-12

AKA: Polyoxyethylene Octyl Phenol
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Not Clean
OriginSynthesized from fatty alcohols and ethylene oxide, belonging to the alkoxylated surfactant chemical family. Produced through ethoxylation, where ethylene oxide chains are added to octylphenol via catalytic reaction.
Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), .alpha.-[4-(1,1,3,3-tetramethylbutyl)phenyl]-.omega.-hydroxy- (12 mol EO average molar ratio)
CAS #
9002-93-1
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Functions
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Emulsifier
Reduces Inflammation
Locks In Moisture
Fights Bacteria
Mixes Oil & Water
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewednone on file
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed4 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
EWG
7
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
Concentration Guide
Leave-on1.5%
Rinse-offNot reported
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · 2025 survey
Regulatory Status
USA✔ permitted
EU⚠ restricted
JAPAN⚠ restricted
CANADA⚠ restricted
🧂Conflict of interest.
Verified Jun 2026 · 🧪 = conflict
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR