CETEARETH-21: Premium Non-Ionic Emulsifier for High-Stability Cosmetic Formulations

HLB 15–17 · Ultra-Mild · Multi-Functional

Ceteareth-21 is a commonly used surfactant that plays an important role in skincare products. It exhibits excellent emulsifying, solubilizing, and stabilizing properties, effectively enhancing the quality and user experience of skincare products. While Ceteareth-21 differs from Ceteareth-2 in molecular structure and properties, both belong to the ceteareth family and share certain similarities.

The Role of Ceteareth-21 in Skincare Products

1. Enhanced Stability: Ceteareth-21 helps stabilize the oil-water mixture in skincare products, preventing separation and precipitation. This is due to its excellent emulsifying properties, ensuring that skincare products remain uniform and stable in all environments.

2. Enhanced Penetration: Ceteareth-21 improves the penetration of active ingredients in skincare products, allowing them to be more easily absorbed into the skin. This not only enhances the effectiveness of skincare products but also provides a more comfortable user experience.

3. Excellent emulsification and solubilization: Ceteareth-21, as a highly effective emulsifier, effectively mixes oil and water phases to form a stable emulsion. It also has a solubilizing effect, helping to increase the solubility of poorly soluble ingredients in skincare products, thereby enhancing the overall effectiveness of the product.

4. Moisturizing and Softening: Ceteareth-21 forms a protective film on the skin's surface, preventing moisture evaporation and providing excellent moisturizing properties. It also penetrates the skin's surface, nourishing it and providing ample nutrients, leaving it softer and smoother.

Differences between Ceteareth-2 and Ceteareth-21

While both Ceteareth-2 and Ceteareth-21 play important roles in skincare products, there are some differences between them. The primary differences lie in their molecular structures and properties. Ceteareth-2 has a smaller molecular weight and stronger penetration, making it more suitable for skin care products that require deep penetration; while Ceteareth-21 has a larger molecular weight and better stability, making it more suitable for skin care products that need to maintain stability for a long time.

Triple-Action Performance

Emulsion Stabilization: Forms heat-resistant (≤85°C) O/W systems for creams, lotions, and serums, preventing phase separation during thermal cycling.

Sensory Enhancement: Imparts non-greasy, velvety textures in luxury formulations (e.g., anti-aging serums).

Synergistic Boost: Partners with low-HLB emulsifiers (e.g., Cetearyl Alcohol) to optimize viscosity and spreadability.

Safety & Skin Compatibility

Ultra-Gentle: Non-irritating; suitable for eczema-prone and baby skincare (CIR-safe: ≤5% leave-on).

Non-Comedogenic: Zero pore-clogging risk at recommended doses.

Ceteareth-21 plays an important role in skin care products. Its excellent emulsifying, solubilizing, stabilizing and moisturizing properties bring excellent effects and usage experience to skin care products.

Conditions: 25°C max, ≤60% humidity, sealed/light-resistant containers

Safety: Non-irritating; use gloves/goggles during industrial handling

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