Common Name(s): Octyldodeceth-16,octyldodeceth-16,peg-16 octyldodecanol,branched c20 ethoxylate
DESCRIPTION
What It Does: Stabilizes oil-in-water emulsions and helps dissolve oil-based ingredients into water-based formulas. the branched lipid tail provides a smooth, non-greasy skin feel.
Why It's Used: Octyldodeceth-16 is selected for high-hlb (~14) emulsification from 16-eo ethoxylation of octyldodecanol โ the branched c20 lipid tail contributes superior skin feel and reduced irritancy compared to linear alkyl ethoxylates at equivalent hlb, because branching prevents crystalline packing that creates waxy skin residue.
How It Works: 16-eo hydrophilic chain โ high water affinity (hlb ~14); octyldodecyl branched c20 tail โ oil phase anchoring; non-linear structure โ non-crystallizing, smooth skin feel.
Typically Found In: Emollient formulas,o/w emulsions,serum formulas
TECHNICAL DETAILS
Primary Category: Functional ingredient โ emulsifier
Secondary Functions: Solubilizing,skin conditioning
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: Octyldodecanol from plant or synthetic; 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; formulation-dependent
Sensitivity Concerns: Generally well tolerated. high-concentration ethoxylates may cause mild irritation in some individuals.
Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes
SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY
Safety Profile: Good safety profile. ewg score: 1โ2.
Works Well With: Emollients,humectants,actives as solubilizer
Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities
SCIENTIFIC NOTE
Branched octyldodecyl tail suppresses crystallization that causes waxy residue in linear alkyl ethoxylates โ the branching reduces packing efficiency at the interface, keeping the emulsifier layer fluid at skin temperature.
Last Verified: 2026-03-27
Primary Sources: Cosing database,octyldodeceth-16 peg emulsifier review