Snapshot
- Overview
- A castor-derived cleanser that lifts oil and makeup without harshness.
- Category
- Cleansing, Emulsifying
- Type
- Surfactant
Ricinoleth-40
Ricinoleth-40 is a water-soluble, nonionic surfactant made by ethoxylating castor oil-derived fatty acids. It's used to solubilize fragrances and oils in cleansers and mists, improve rinse-off, and support stable emulsions.
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Our take
Is Ricinoleth-40 a Good Ingredient?
Good, because it's an effective nonionic solubilizer and surfactant that reliably disperses oils and fragrance in water with a generally mild skin profile, and that solid, dependable performance is what supports the rating. It's not rated Great since PEG derivatives and castor-based surfactants like this can occasionally bother very sensitive skin, and it offers limited direct skin benefit beyond its functional role.
What it does
Skin Benefits
Helps lift oils, sunscreen, and makeup for a cleaner feel without harshness, promoting a clear, uniform look in water-based products and leaving a light, non-heavy finish.
Where you'll find it
Uses in Skincare & Cosmetics
Common in micellar waters, toners, and gel cleansers to disperse oily components, and also used in facial mists and makeup removers to evenly blend fragrance or essential oils.
Before you use it
Safety
Typically low-irritating and well tolerated; a small number of sensitive users may experience mild stinging or redness, especially around the eyes. Patch testing is prudent for very reactive skin.
Products with Ricinoleth-40
