INCI page

DECETH-3

Last update on Feb 6, 2025
Deceth-3 is a detergent ingredient commonly found in beauty products. It is primarily used in cleaning and washing cosmetics such as shampoos, makeup removers, and shower gels. This surfactant helps reduce surface tension, allowing water to mix with oil and dirt. This makes it easier to remove impurities from the skin or hair. As a powerful emulsifier, Deceth-3 prevents the separation of oil and water-based ingredients in formulations. This ensures the creation of stable products like lotions, creams, and serums. At room temperature, Deceth-3 appears as a clear liquid with a characteristic odor. It is also known by its chemical name, Ethoxylated C10 Alcohol. The chemical formula of Deceth-3 is C12H26O2.
CAS Number: 26183-52-8Chem/IUPAC Name: Decanol, ethoxylated (3 mol EO average molar ratio)EINECS/ELINCS No: 500-046-6COSING REF No: 75433

What is DECETH-3 used for?

Deceth-3 is used as a wetting agent, emulsifier, and dispersant in personal care and cosmetics. It has amazing foaming and cleansing properties. This makes it a vogue in products like shampoos, facial cleansers, makeup removers, and shower gels. Its mild nature allows it to cleanse gently without removing moisture from the skin and hair. Deceth-3 can mix oil and dirt present on the surface of the skin with water and wash it off. In a formulation, it helps keep oil and water-based ingredients combined. This prevents them from separating for long periods of time. Deceth-3 also enhances the texture of cosmetics and contributes to a light, non-greasy finish of products.

Origin

Deceth-3 is produced through an ethoxylation reaction. In this process, decyl alcohol reacts with ethylene oxide. The number ‘3’ refers to the average number of ethylene oxide units added per molecule. After the reaction, the final ingredient is purified to remove unwanted toxins and byproducts.

What does DECETH-3 do in a formulation?

CLEANSING|
EMULSIFYING|
EMULSION STABILISING|
FOAM BOOSTING|
FOAMING|
SURFACTANT

Safety Profile

Deceth-3 is considered safe for use in cosmetics when formulated properly. It is generally non-irritating and non-toxic for most skin types. Improper formulation and inadequate purification can lead to the presence of 1,4-dioxane, a known carcinogen. It is important to source good quality Deceth-3 for cosmetics and personal care products. Patch tests should be conducted before using any product with this ingredient, as reactions may vary for individuals.

DECETH-3 technical profile

Property Values
Boiling Point 275.07°C
Solubility Poor solubility in water
Viscosity Low

Formulations with DECETH-3

No data available

By Application

No data available