Ceteth-20 Phosphate Good Cleansing Agent No known benefits Ceteth-20 Phosphate at a glance Mild cleansing agent made from derivatives of phosphoric acid and cetyl alcohol Helps control the viscosity of liquid emulsions Also used with emollients to thicken and help stabilize creams May be animal- or plant-derived or synthetic Ceteth-20 Phosphate description Ceteth-20 phosphate is a mild cleansing agent made from chemically combining derivatives of phosphoric acid and the gentle fatty alcohol cetyl alcohol. It’s most often blended with emulsifiers to help create and maintain the stability of liquid emulsions. On the other hand, ceteth-20 phosphate may also be combined with thicker emulsifiers and emollients to control the viscosity and improve the stability of cream formulas. Blends that contain this ingredient are typically advised for use between 2–4% concentrations. Ceteth-20 phosphate may be animal or plant-derived or also made synthetically. Paula’s Choice Skincare uses the plant-derived form. Related ingredients: Ester Cetyl Alcohol Phosphoric Acid