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Beheneth-20

What Beheneth-20 is & what it does

Beheneth-20 is an ethoxylated fatty alcohol derived from behenyl alcohol with roughly 20 units of ethylene oxide. It acts as a nonionic surfactant and emulsifier in creams, lotions, and sunscreens, keeping oil and water phases blended together. Because it comes from a long-chain fatty alcohol, it also lends a smooth, conditioning feel to the finished product.

Is Beheneth-20 safe?

Beheneth-20 is a nonionic surfactant and emulsifier used in cosmetics and is generally regarded as safe at typical use levels. It helps keep creams and lotions stable and smooth. As with other surfactants, those with sensitive skin can patch test a new product first.

What does Beheneth-20 do in skincare?

Beheneth-20 acts as an emulsifier, helping oil and water phases stay blended in creams, lotions, and sunscreens. Because it comes from a long-chain fatty alcohol, it also adds a smooth, conditioning feel. This helps the finished product apply evenly and feel pleasant on the skin.

Is Beheneth-20 natural or synthetic?

Beheneth-20 is synthetic, made by reacting behenyl alcohol with ethylene oxide. The behenyl alcohol base is often plant-derived, for example from rapeseed or other vegetable sources, so the ingredient is commonly suitable for vegan formulas. Exact sourcing depends on the supplier.

Sunscreens with Beheneth-20

We rate 14 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

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