murphyOctoxynol-13
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Polyoxyethylene Octyl Phenol
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Not Clean
OriginDerived from phenol and ethylene oxide, belonging to the alkylphenol ethoxylate chemical family. Synthesized through ethoxylation of octylphenol, adding ethylene oxide units to create the surfactant.
Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), .alpha.-[4-(1,1,3,3-tetramethylbutyl)phenyl]-.omega.-hydroxy- (13 mol EO average molar ratio)
CAS #
9002-93-1
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
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
Antioxidant Protection
Reduces Inflammation
Locks In Moisture
Removes Impurities
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
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
1 study / 1 not sensitizing (CIR 291)
Mixed Eye Irritation Results
2 studies / 1 irritating / 1 not irritating / reactions severe (CIR 891)
Mixed Skin Irritation Results
3 studies / 1 mixed / 2 not irritating / reactions slight (CIR 291 and 891)
Concentration Guide
CIR's newest survey reports no concentration of use.
CIR · 2025 survey
Regulatory Agencies
🧂Conflict of interest.
Verified Jun 2026 · 🧪 = conflict
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR