Oleth-10 is the name given in the INCI system (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients) for oleic alcohol ethoxylated with 10 moles of ethylene oxide. It is a hydrophilic compound classified as a surfactant and an O/W (oil-in-water) emulsifier.
Oleth-10 belongs to the Oleth family of compounds consisting of polyethylene glycol and oleic alcohol ethers, where the number in the name is the average number of ethylene oxide moieties. The water solubility of Oleth components increases proportionally to the ethylene oxide content. An unambiguous numerical term assigned to a chemical by a US organization is otherwise know as the CAS number. The CAS number of the compound is: 9004-98-2. At room temperature, Oleth-10 has the consistency of a liquid paste and shows good solubility in water. Most often it is of natural origin, which translates into the biodegradability of products containing Oleth-10. Nevertheless, it is also possible to obtain this substance from animal and synthetic sources.One of the most important properties of this compound is the ability to change the dissolution properties of some components that, without the support of Oleth-10, would not dissolve in a given environment.
In cosmetic formulations, Oleth-10 acts as a base ingredient. In other words, it is an essential component needed to achieve a specific cosmetic texture and enables the incorporation of specific active substances into the composition. Oleth-10 is an O/W emulsifier (oil particles suspended in the aqueous phase). Thus, it is a modifier of rheological properties. It prevents the delamination of preparations and enables the combination of oily and aqueous phases. In addition, in cosmetic formulations it acts as a dispersant, as well as a non-ionic surfactant. Mainly used as a washing substance, it removes impurities from the surface of the skin and head. Used in a variety of formulas in the cosmetics industry, including skin care products, skin cleansing products (cleansing foams, gels, micellar fluids), moisturisers and eye make-up products. It is also considered as a fragrance ingredient.
Oleth-10 is widely used in the production of cosmetic preparations as described above. In addition, due to its properties, it is also used in other industries. Among other things, it is used as an additive to paints and varnishes, where it ensures an appropriate dispersion level. As a component of emulsifying compositions, it is also used in the production of plant protection products, household chemicals and broadly understood washing products.
According to the applicable standards, this compound is not classified as hazardous. The safety of use of Oleth-10-containing products has been determined by the CIR(the Cosmetic Ingredient Review) experts. It is not a toxic substance and does not cause allergies. Under direct contact, it may cause slight eye and skin irritation. Possible side effects of products containing Oleth-10 are related to the risk of the presence of a well-known toxin: 1,4-dioxane which is a by-product of ethoxylation. With proper concentration and careful control, the production of cosmetics containing Oleth-10 is completely safe. On the other hand, the presence of the toxin increases the penetration of other ingredients in cosmetic products, which, while maintaining concentration regulations, only contributes to the effectiveness. Currently, there is no scientifically confirmed information about the adverse environment impact of cosmetics containing Oleth-10.
