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Buteth-3

What Buteth-3 is & what it does

Buteth-3 is an ethoxylated butyl alcohol, a synthetic ingredient that acts as a surfactant and solubilizer in cosmetic formulas. Its main job is to help blend oils, fragrances, and other poorly water-soluble materials into water-based products and to support cleansing. The number 3 refers to the degree of ethoxylation, which influences its solubilizing strength. It is commonly used in cleansers, toners, and lightweight emulsions as a formulation aid rather than a skin active.

What is Buteth-3?

Buteth-3 is an ethoxylated butyl alcohol, a synthetic ingredient that acts as a surfactant and solubilizer. The number refers to its degree of ethoxylation.

What does Buteth-3 do in a formula?

It helps blend oils, fragrances, and other poorly water-soluble materials into water-based products and can support cleansing. It is a formulation aid rather than a skin active.

Is Buteth-3 safe?

It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics as a solubilizer at typical levels. It functions mainly behind the scenes to keep formulas stable and clear.

Sunscreens with Buteth-3

We rate 4 sunscreens that contain it:

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