Octoxynol-3
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: 2315-62-0, Octoxynol 3, PEG-3 Octyl phenyl ether, 4-OCTYLPHENOL TRIETHOXYLATE, Ethanol, OCTOXINOL-3, OCTOXYNOL 3 [VANDF]
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Not Clean
Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), .alpha.-[4-(1,1,3,3-tetramethylbutyl)phenyl]-.omega.-hydroxy- (3 mol EO average molar ratio)
Formula
C20H34O4
Mol. Weight
338.50
CAS #
9002-93-1
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
Traditional Use
A nonionic surfactant created in the 1950s as a spermicide for contraceptive applications. Later adopted in cosmetics as an emulsifier and solubilizing agent for oil-based ingredients.
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Mild Irritant
Regulatory Agencies
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
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.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR