Oleth-10

Oleth-10 is a nonionic surfactant produced by ethoxylating oleyl alcohol, categorized as a PEG-based emulsifier and solubilizer, used to disperse oils into water, stabilize lotions and washes, and improve fragrance incorporation.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
Helps disperse oils in cleansers so they rinse off cleanly.
Category
Emulsifying, Cleansing
Type
Emulsifier

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Good

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Helps cleansers feel gentle and rinse without a heavy film while keeping textures uniform. Can cut greasiness so products feel lighter on skin.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Used in face washes, micellar waters, and makeup removers to aid effective makeup lift-off; also appears in lightweight lotions for smoother application.

Comedogenic Rating

This ingredient is not typically evaluated for comedogenicity, and no standardized rating is available.

Safety

Generally well tolerated, though higher concentrations or use near the eyes can cause mild stinging or dryness. PEG-based surfactants are not known to be comedogenic; sensitive users may wish to patch test.

Is Oleth-10 a Good Ingredient?

Rated Good because this nonionic PEG surfactant reliably solubilizes oils and stabilizes cleansers, with typically low irritation when properly formulated: solid, dependable performance, but nothing that pushes it into a higher tier.

Products with Oleth-10

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