Oleth-3
AKA “Oleyl Ethoxylate 3, Oleth 3, Polyethylene Glycol Monooleyl Ether
Synthetic
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Ingredient Facts
Oleth-3
AKA: Oleyl Ethoxylate 3, Oleth 3, Polyethylene Glycol Monooleyl Ether
Synthetic · Surfactant - Emulsifying | Surfactant - Cleansing · EWG: 4
Plant-Derived
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Synthetic
Not Clean
Helps blend oil and water-based ingredients together so the product feels smooth and absorbs evenly into skin.
CAS #
9004-98-2
Form
Liquid
Plant-Derived
Synthetic. Derived from oleic acid and ethylene oxide, both petroleum-derived synthetic compounds. Synthesized through ethoxylation, where ethylene oxide chains are added to oleic alcohol.
Function
Surfactant - Emulsifying | Surfactant - Cleansing
Benefits
Emulsifier
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