murphyOleth-5
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Oleyl Ethoxylate 5, Oleth 5, Polyethylene Glycol Monooleyl Ether
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Clean
OriginDerived from ethylene oxide and oleyl alcohol, a fatty alcohol typically sourced from oleic acid. Synthesized through ethoxylation, where ethylene oxide chains are added to oleyl alcohol via catalytic reaction.
Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), .alpha.-9-(Z)-octadecenyl-.omega.-hydroxy (5 mol EO average molar ratio)
CAS #
9004-98-2
Form
Liquid
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Functions
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Emulsifier
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed3 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
EWG
2
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
Concentration Guide
Leave-on0.3–10%
Rinse-off0.06–10%
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · 2010 survey
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR