Octyldodeceth-5
AKA “PEG-5 octyl dodecyl ether, Octyldodecanol ethoxylate, UNKNOWN
Surfactant
Ingredient Facts
Octyldodeceth-5
AKA: PEG-5 octyl dodecyl ether, Octyldodecanol ethoxylate, UNKNOWN
Surfactant · Emulsifying · EWG: 4
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Not Clean
Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), .alpha.-(2-octyldodecyl)-.omega.-hydroxy-, (5 mol EO average molar ratio)
Effective at 1.6%
CAS #
32128-65-7
Form
Liquid
See origin →
Functions
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Emulsifier
Mixes Oil & Water
Traditional Use
Synthetic polyethylene glycol ether developed in the mid-20th century as a non-ionic surfactant and emulsifier for cosmetic formulations. No traditional use; created to improve stability and texture in modern skincare and cosmetic products.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Concentration Guide
0.2%
3.0%
0%4%
Effective Range
CIR reported use: 0.7-2 | 1-3 | 0.2-3
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR