Skincare without the upsell.
Be

Beheneth-20

Beheneth-20Barrier

A nonionic surfactant used to emulsify oil and water and to thicken or solubilize a formula.

What it does

Beheneth-20 is a long-chain fatty alcohol (behenyl) reacted with ethylene oxide. The water-loving and oil-loving parts let it blend oil and water, solubilize oily ingredients, and help build viscosity, so it is used as an emulsifier and texture agent. It is a formulation ingredient rather than a skin active.

Browse all 668 ingredients — grouped by what they do, each with whatever evidence we can cite.

This page is public so a shared ingredient card always has its sources behind it — and so you can check them without an account.
Want more like this?
Every evidence-based flag cites its source, Drop tells you when your routine is complete, and it helps you simplify — instead of selling you more. The app launches on iOS and Android in October 2026. Rate my routine works today at /rate — no sign-in.