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Ceteareth-12

Ceteareth-12Barrier

A nonionic surfactant used to emulsify oil and water and to help cleanse.

What it does

Ceteareth-12 is a fatty alcohol reacted with ethylene oxide, giving it a water-loving head and an oil-loving tail. That structure lets it blend oil and water into a stable emulsion and help lift away oils, so it is used as an emulsifier and mild cleansing agent. It is a formulation ingredient rather than a skin active.

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