Oleth-16
AKA “PEG-16 oleyl ether, polyoxyethylene oleyl ether, UNKNOWN
Synthetic
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Ingredient Facts
Oleth-16
AKA: PEG-16 oleyl ether, Polyoxyethylene oleyl ether, UNKNOWN
Synthetic · Surfactant - Cleansing | Surfactant - Emulsifying · EWG: 4
Plant-Derived
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Plant Oil
Synthetic
Not Clean
A gentle cleanser that helps remove oil and dirt while keeping product textures smooth and blended.
CAS #
9004-98-2
Form
Liquid
Plant-Derived
Synthetic. Derived from fatty alcohols, typically produced from coconut or palm oil derivatives. Synthesized through ethoxylation, where ethylene oxide is added to create a polyethylene glycol ether chain.
Function
Surfactant - Cleansing | Surfactant - Emulsifying
Benefits
Cleansing Surfactant
Emulsifier
Removes Impurities
Mixes Oil & Water
Traditional Use
Synthetic surfactant and emulsifier developed in the mid-20th century by ethoxylating oleyl alcohol. These polyethylene glycol derivatives were created to provide stable emulsification and solubilization properties in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
Target
General
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
Pregnancy Safe
Yes
EWG Score4
CIR Safety Findings
medical-approval, all-shades-safe, Not a Sensitizer
Concentration Guide
Industry reports use up to 18.0% across all product types. Source: CIR Safety Assessment (CIR Seq 581).
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Feb 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR