Ceteareth-5 | Polyoxyl 5 Cetostearyl Ether

Ceteareth-5 has an HLB value of approximately 10.3. This places it in the intermediate-to-low HLB range. At this HLB, it functions as a lipophilic co-emulsifier in O/W systems, or as a primary emulsifier in W/O (water-in-oil) systems. Its most common use is as a co-emulsifier blended with a high-HLB emulsifier like Ceteareth-20.

The key difference is the number of ethylene oxide (EO) units: Ceteareth-5 has 5 EO units (low HLB, more lipophilic), while Ceteareth-20 has 20 EO units (high HLB, more hydrophilic). Ceteareth-5 is a co-emulsifier and texture enhancer, while Ceteareth-20 is the primary O/W emulsifier. They are frequently used together in a ratio to achieve the target blended HLB for the oil phase.

A common ratio is approximately 1 part Ceteareth-5 to 2–3 parts Ceteareth-20 (e.g., 1% Ceteareth-5 + 2% Ceteareth-20). The exact ratio depends on the oil phase composition and desired HLB. Formulators should calculate the required HLB of the oil blend and adjust the emulsifier ratio accordingly using the weighted-average HLB method.

Ceteareth-5, like other waxy emulsifiers, is added to the oil phase during emulsion manufacturing. The oil phase (including all oil-soluble actives and waxes) is heated to 70–80°C to melt all components before combining with the hot water phase under agitation.

Cold-process emulsification with Ceteareth-5 is not recommended due to its waxy solid form and relatively high melting point. It needs to be melted into the oil phase at elevated temperature (above ~40°C) for effective emulsification. Cold-process formulations typically require liquid or self-emulsifying emulsifier systems.

Beyond personal care, Ceteareth-5 is used in: agrochemical emulsifiable concentrates (EC formulations), metalworking and cutting fluids as W/O emulsifiers, wax emulsions for floor polishes and car care products, and as a co-emulsifier in industrial lubricant formulations.

Ceteareth-5 has a well-established safety profile for cosmetic use. It is non-ionic and non-irritating at typical use concentrations. However, like all ethoxylated ingredients, formulators for sensitive-skin or baby products should use at the minimum effective concentration and conduct appropriate product safety testing.

Yes. Combining Ceteareth-5 with Glycol Distearate produces a pearlescent, opaque appearance in shampoos and shower gels — a classic pearlising system widely used in personal care. Ceteareth-5 helps disperse the Glycol Distearate crystals evenly in the surfactant matrix, creating a stable, visually appealing pearl.

Pharcos C 5 (Ceteareth-5) is a white to off-white waxy solid with a melting point of approximately 32–38°C. It is supplied in flake or pastille form for easy handling and weighing.