Castor oil (Ricinus communis), hydrogenated, ethoxylated (65 mol EO average molar ratio)
Family
Euphorbiaceae (Spurge family)
Plant Part
Seed
CAS #
61788-85-0
Form
Oil
See origin →
Functions
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Cleansing Surfactant
Emulsifier
Removes Impurities
Mixes Oil & Water
Traditional Use
A synthetic emulsifier created by polyethylene glycolating hydrogenated castor oil, developed in the mid-20th century. Designed to allow castor oil—historically used as a skin moisturizer—to blend smoothly into cosmetic products without separation.