Octyldodeceth-16 Good Emulsifier No known benefits Octyldodeceth-16 at a glance Used as an emulsifier Also functions as a surfactant Ruled safe as used in cosmetics Octyldodeceth-16 description Octyldodeceth-16 is a synthetic polymer used in cosmetics as an emulsifier and surface-active agent, or surfactant. This means it helps stabilize cosmetic formulas and allows them to spread out more easily. The independent Cosmetic Ingredient Review has found octyldodeceth-16 safe in its current use in cosmetics, where the amount used ranges from 0.1-2%. Related ingredients: Surfactant