Description

Ceteareth-20 (CAS 68439-49-6) is a high-HLB non-ionic emulsifier from the Ceteareth family — the ethoxylated derivative of cetearyl alcohol, made from vegetable oils and ethylene oxide. It is a workhorse O/W emulsifier for stable creams, lotions and sunscreen formulas.

Physical & Chemical Properties

• INCI: Ceteareth-20
• Appearance: white pellets, no odor
• Solubility: dissolves in water & alcohol to form a colloid solution; mixable with mineral, vegetable or synthetic fats
• HLB value: approx. 15.2 (O/W)
• Ionic type: non-ionic
• Melting point: approx. 45–55°C (wax-like pellets)
• Raw material source: vegetable oils and ethylene oxide (fatty alcohols)

Key Benefits for Formulation

• High-HLB O/W emulsification: creates stable, elegant oil-in-water creams
• Temperature-stable: withstands typical hot/cold process cycles
• Pairs with fatty alcohols: builds viscosity and body with cetearyl alcohol
• Broad compatibility: works with esters, silicones and botanical oils
• Dermatologically mild: suitable for daily skincare and body care

Main Applications

• Creams & lotions: primary or co-emulsifier for O/W systems
• Sunscreen: stabilizes UV filter emulsions
• Body & hand care: rich, stable textures
• Hair conditioners: emulsion stability and slip
• Professional skincare: consistent viscosity and feel

Why Choose Our Bulk Ceteareth-20?

• GMP manufacturing: full quality control from raw material to finished product
• Complete documentation: COA, SDS and heavy metal test reports available on request
• Flexible supply: MOQ and lead time on inquiry, from R&D samples to mass production
• Export experience: reliable shipping to EU, North America, Australia and Middle East

Recommended Usage

Typical use level 0.5%–30% (range of 15%–30% used to make gel-like brushable hydrates). Blend with cetearyl alcohol and/or a low-HLB emulsifier for optimized stability. Heat to 65–75°C during emulsification. For external use only.

FAQ About Wholesale Ceteareth-20

What is the CAS number of Ceteareth-20?

CAS 68439-49-6.

What is the INCI name?

Ceteareth-20.

What is the HLB value of Ceteareth-20?

Approximately 15.2 — a high-HLB O/W emulsifier.

Is Ceteareth-20 water soluble?

It dissolves in water and alcohol to form a colloid solution, and can be mixed with fats.

How is Ceteareth-20 different from Ceteareth-25 or -30?

All share CAS 68439-49-6; higher numbers indicate more ethylene oxide units (higher HLB, more hydrophilic character).

What should I pair Ceteareth-20 with?

Cetearyl alcohol (fatty alcohol) and/or a low-HLB co-emulsifier for stable, thick emulsions.

What is the recommended dosage?

0.5%–30% depending on formula; 15%–30% for gel-like hydrates.

Is it compatible with electrolytes and actives?

Generally yes for typical cosmetic electrolytes and actives; always stability-test.

Start Your Ceteareth-20 Bulk Order

Contact our sales team today for spec sheets, samples and bulk pricing — our technical team is ready to support your formulation development.