Oleth-10
What Oleth-10 is & what it does
Oleth-10 is an ethoxylated fatty alcohol derived from oleyl alcohol, a synthetic ingredient used widely in cosmetics. In sunscreen and skincare formulas it functions as an emulsifier and surfactant, helping oil and water phases blend into a stable, uniform product. The number 10 refers to the degree of ethoxylation, which affects how oil- or water-loving the molecule is.
What does Oleth-10 do in skincare?
Oleth-10 is an ethoxylated fatty alcohol used as an emulsifier and surfactant. In skincare and sunscreen formulas it helps oil and water phases blend into a stable, uniform product. It can also support smooth spreading of the formula.
Is Oleth-10 natural or synthetic?
Oleth-10 is synthetic, made by ethoxylating oleyl alcohol with ethylene oxide. The oleyl alcohol portion can come from plant or animal-derived fatty sources, but the finished ingredient is chemically processed. The number 10 indicates its degree of ethoxylation.
Is Oleth-10 safe?
Oleth-10 is a commonly used emulsifier and surfactant in cosmetic products. It is typically used at functional levels following standard formulating practice. If you have sensitive skin, a patch test and a look at the full ingredient list can help.
Sunscreens with Oleth-10
We rate 25 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:
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Intermed Luxurious Sun Care Face Cream SPF50
85/100
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Pharmaderm Sunstop Plus SPF 50+
81/100
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Felice UV Protector SPF 30
81/100
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Nutri Women Hydropore Sun SPF 50 Moisturiser
76/100
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Zymogen Long-lasting Power Sun Cream
76/100
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Nunuki SPF 30
76/100
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THE YEON Vita Fresh Gel Sunscreen SPF 50+ Pa+++
75/100
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VILLAGE 11 FACTORY Waterproof Cica Sun Lotion Spf 50 Pa++++
74/100
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nottoomuch Stay Moist Cica Suncream Spf50+/Pa+++
74/100
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Dermastine Face Suncare SPF 50
74/100