Common Name(s): Myreth-5,peg-5 myristyl ether,peg-5 tetradecanol ether
DESCRIPTION
What It Does: Helps oil and water blend in formulas and conditions skin.
Why It's Used: Moderate-hlb (~8โ9) emulsifier from the myristyl ethoxylate series; suitable for o/w emulsions.
How It Works: 5 eo units give hlb ~8โ9; c14 myristyl chain; suitable for balanced o/w emulsification.
Typically Found In: O/w emulsions,creams,lotions,skin conditioning products
TECHNICAL DETAILS
Primary Category: Functional ingredient โ emulsifier
Secondary Functions: Skin conditioning,surfactant
Application Areas:
Facial Skincare
Body Care
Hair Care
Beard Care
Color Cosmetics (Makeup)
Dietary/Oral Supplements
Typical Concentration Range: 0.5%โ5%
SOURCING & ETHICS
Vegan Status: Conditional - supplier confirmation required
Halal Status: Yes
Source Notes: Myristyl alcohol from coconut/palm; eo from petrochemical. [audit 2026-07-29 rev2: status downgraded on audit. determination requires shariah-panel sign-off.]
SKIN COMPATIBILITY
Irritancy Rating: 1/5 โ very low
Comedogenicity Rating: 1/5 โ low
Sensitivity Concerns: Generally well tolerated.
Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes
SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY
Safety Profile: Good safety profile. ewg score: 1.
Works Well With: Fatty alcohols,emollients,high-hlb emulsifiers
Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities
SCIENTIFIC NOTE
Myreth (myristyl ethoxylate) series: myreth-2 (hlb~5), myreth-3 (hlb~6.5), myreth-5 (hlb~8-9), myreth-10 (hlb~12); cas group 27306-79-2 covers the family.
Last Verified: 2026-03-27
Primary Sources: Cosing database,inci dictionary,cir safety assessment fatty alcohol ethoxylates