Rate My SPF

Isoceteth-10

What Isoceteth-10 is & what it does

Isoceteth-10 is a synthetic nonionic surfactant made by reacting isocetyl alcohol with about ten units of ethylene oxide. In cosmetic and sunscreen formulas it works mainly as an emulsifier and solubilizer, helping oil and water phases blend and keeping fragrances or active ingredients evenly dispersed. The number 10 refers to the degree of ethoxylation, which influences how water-loving the molecule is.

What does Isoceteth-10 do in skincare?

Isoceteth-10 is a nonionic surfactant used mainly as an emulsifier and solubilizer. It helps oil and water phases mix into a stable formula and keeps fragrances or active ingredients evenly dispersed. In sunscreens and creams it contributes to a smooth, uniform texture.

Is Isoceteth-10 safe?

Isoceteth-10 is widely used in cosmetics and is generally considered safe at the levels found in finished products. Because it is an ethoxylated ingredient, manufacturers take care to purify it of trace by-products from the production process. People with very sensitive skin may prefer to patch test surfactant-containing products.

Is Isoceteth-10 natural or synthetic?

Isoceteth-10 is a synthetic ingredient. It is made by reacting isocetyl alcohol with ethylene oxide, a process called ethoxylation. The 10 indicates roughly how many ethylene oxide units are attached, which affects how water-loving the molecule is.

Sunscreens with Isoceteth-10

We rate 34 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

← All ingredients