Common Name(s): Decyltetradeceth-25,peg-25 decyltetradecyl ether,branched c24 ethoxylate-25
DESCRIPTION
What It Does: Helps oil and water mix together in formulas, especially useful for solubilizing heavy or branched oils.
Why It's Used: Its high hlb (~16) and branched hydrophobic tail provide excellent o/w emulsification and oil solubilization with a clear, light texture.
How It Works: 25 ethylene oxide units create a highly hydrophilic shell (hlb ~16); the branched c24 decyltetradecyl tail anchors into oil phases, stabilizing oil droplets in water-based systems.
Typically Found In: O/w emulsions,lightweight lotions,serum bases,oil solubilizers
TECHNICAL DETAILS
Primary Category: Functional ingredient – emulsifier
Secondary Functions: Solubilizing,surfactant,skin conditioning
Application Areas:
Facial Skincare
Body Care
Hair Care
Beard Care
Color Cosmetics (Makeup)
Dietary/Oral Supplements
Typical Concentration Range: 0.5%–5%
SOURCING & ETHICS
Vegan Status: Conditional - supplier confirmation required
Halal Status: Yes
Source Notes: Decyltetradecanol from synthetic or petrochemical source; ethylene oxide from petrochemical process. [audit 2026-07-29 rev2: status downgraded on audit. determination requires shariah-panel sign-off.]
SKIN COMPATIBILITY
Irritancy Rating: 1/5 – very low
Comedogenicity Rating: 1/5 – low; branched tail reduces pore-clogging tendency
Sensitivity Concerns: Generally well tolerated. potential trace 1,4-dioxane from ethoxylation; verify for certified natural/organic use.
Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes
SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY
Safety Profile: Good safety profile. ewg score: 1–2. ethoxylation may introduce trace impurities; manufacturing quality matters.
Works Well With: Emollients,humectants,fragrance solubilization,other peg-based emulsifiers
Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities at typical use concentrations
SCIENTIFIC NOTE
Branched c24 structure (decyltetradecanol) reduces crystallinity versus linear c24, improving hlb predictability and cloud point stability in o/w emulsions.
Last Verified: 2026-03-27
Primary Sources: Cosing database,specialchem inci directory,supplier technical data sheets