Ceteareth 25 – Bris CSA 25

Description

Ceteareth-25, also known as Bris CSA 25, is a non-ionic surfactant and emulsifier used in cosmetics and personal care products. It is a polyoxyethylene ether of higher saturated fatty alcohols (cetyl/stearyl alcohol). It helps to create stable oil-in-water emulsions and can be used with other emulsifiers and thickeners.
Key characteristics and functions of Ceteareth-25:
Emulsifier: It stabilizes oil-in-water (o/w) emulsions, allowing oil and water-based ingredients to mix and remain stable in products like creams and lotions.
Surfactant: It helps to reduce the surface tension of liquids, allowing for better cleaning and spreading of products.
Non-ionic: It doesn’t carry an electrical charge, making it compatible with a wide range of other ingredients.
Versatile: Compatible with various oils and active ingredients.
Thickening and gel-forming: Compared to Ceteareth-20, it has slightly better gel-forming and thickening properties.
Solubility: It helps to keep ingredients soluble within a formula, ensuring even distribution.
Origin: It can be derived from plant, animal, or synthetic sources.
Application: Widely used in creams, lotions, foundations, and sunscreens.
Safety: Generally considered safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products, with concentration levels varying based on the product type.
Potential for impurities: Although generally safe, Ceteareth ingredients may contain trace amounts of 1,4-dioxane, a by-product of ethoxylation. Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) notes that the potential presence of 1,4-dioxane is well known and can be controlled through purification steps.
Storage and Handling: Ceteareth-25 is typically available in flakes and has a shelf life of 2 years.