Octyldodeceth-16
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: PEG-16 octyl dodecyl ether, Octyldodecanol ethoxylate, UNKNOWN
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Clean
Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), .alpha.-(2-octyldodecyl)-.omega.-hydroxy- (16 mol EO average molar ratio)
Effective at 1.6%
CAS #
32128-65-7
Form
Liquid
Functions
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Emulsifier
Mixes Oil & Water
Traditional Use
A synthetic nonionic surfactant developed for cosmetic applications. Used as a mild emulsifier and solubilizing agent in skincare and personal care formulations.
EWG
2
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Concentration Guide
0.2%
3.0%
0%4%
Reported use
CIR reported use: 0.7-2 | 1-3 | 0.2-3
Regulatory Agencies
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewednone on file
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed2 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR