Allowed in EU

Oleth-4

A cosmetic ingredient used as surfactant - emulsifying in skincare, haircare, and personal-care products sold in the European Union.

What is it?

Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), .alpha.-9-(Z)-octadecenyl-.omega.-hydroxy (4 mol EO average molar ratio)

What does it do?

Oleth-4 is listed in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with the following declared functions:

  • Surfactant - emulsifying

    surfactant that forms and stabilises emulsions of oil and water — without it, creams and lotions would separate

EU regulatory status

Oleth-4 is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the European Union under Regulation 1223/2009. It is not subject to a specific Annex restriction at the time of writing.

Frequently asked questions

What is Oleth-4?

Oleth-4 is a cosmetic ingredient catalogued in the EU CosIng database. Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), .alpha.-9-(Z)-octadecenyl-.omega.-hydroxy (4 mol EO average molar ratio)

Is Oleth-4 allowed in cosmetics in the EU?

Yes. Oleth-4 is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the EU under Regulation 1223/2009.

What does Oleth-4 do in cosmetic products?

Oleth-4 is declared in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with these functions: surfactant - emulsifying.

What is the CAS number of Oleth-4?

The CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number for Oleth-4 is 9004-98-2.

Related ingredients

Source: EU CosIng database (European Commission). This page is derived from public-sector information published by the European Commission. · Last updated: 15/10/2010