murphyOctoxynol-9
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Nonoxynol-9 analog, Octylphenol ethoxylate, UNKNOWN
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Not Clean
OriginDerived from nonylphenol, a synthetic organic compound created through alkylation reactions of phenol. Synthesized through ethoxylation of nonylphenol with ethylene oxide under controlled conditions.
Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), .alpha.-[4-(1,1,3,3-tetramethylbutyl)phenyl]-.omega.-hydroxy- (9 mol EO average molar ratio)
CAS #
9002-93-1
Form
Liquid
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
5
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
4 studies / 4 not sensitizing / plus 1 case report (CIR 291 and 891)
Comedogenic in Testing
Human test found comedogenicity in the CIR safety assessment (CIR 891)
Mixed Eye Irritation Results
12 studies / 11 irritating / 1 not irritating / reactions minimal to severe (CIR 291 and 891)
Mixed Skin Irritation Results
9 studies / 3 irritating / 2 mixed / 4 not irritating / reactions minimal to moderate (CIR 291 and 891)
Concentration Guide
Leave-on0.36%
Rinse-off2%
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · 2025 survey
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR