Oleth-10

Good

Cleansing Agent

No known benefits

Oleth-10 at a glance

  • Non-irritating fatty alcohol that functions as a texture enhancer and cleansing agent
  • Widely used as an emulsifier in water + oil cosmetics
  • Cleanses skin and hair by helping water mix with oil and dirt to be whisked away
  • Proven track record of safety in cosmetic formulations

Oleth-10 description

Oleth-10 is a form of non-irritating fatty alcohol that functions as a texture enhancer and cleansing agent. It is widely used as an emulsifier in water + oil cosmetics. In general, oleth ingredients clean skin by helping water mix with oil and dirt so they can be whisked away. Oleth-10 can also be used in shampoos. In 2012, the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel concluded that Oleth-10 is safe as when formulated to be nonirritating (their report looked at products containing amounts of 14% and lower).

Oleth-10 references

  • Journal of Functional Biomaterials, August 2020, ePublication
  • Brazilian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, July/September 2014, ePublication
  • Journal of Cosmetic Science, October 2012, pages 397-406
  • Current Nanoscience, 2012, pages 526-534
  • International Journal of Toxicology, 2012, pages 169S-244S

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.