Octoxynol-8

Octoxynol-8 molecular structure
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Polyoxyethylene Octyl Phenol
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Not Clean
OriginDerived from phenol and ethylene oxide, belonging to the nonionic surfactant chemical family. Synthesized through ethoxylation of octylphenol, creating a polyethylene glycol ether compound.
Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), .alpha.-[4-(1,1,3,3-tetramethylbutyl)phenyl]-.omega.-hydroxy- (8 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-assessed3 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
Concentration Guide
CIR lists it as not reported to be in use.
CIR · report published 2025
Regulatory Status
USA✔ permitted
EU⚠ restricted
JAPAN⚠ restricted
CANADA⚠ restricted
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR