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Tuesday, October 13, 2026Index last updated Oct 9
The Index  ·  Nonionic solubilizer

Isoceteth-20

Isoceteth-20

PEG-20 isocetyl ether used to solubilize oils/fragrance in aqueous serums.

FunctionalFunctional ingredient, not graded for skin benefits
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Written byTheSkindex Desk
Reviewed byNot yet reviewed
Last updated5 Oct 2026
Sources2 cited

PEG-20 isocetyl ether used to solubilize oils/fragrance in aqueous serums.

What it does

Keeps clear serums homogeneous at low oil loads.

The evidence

Functional ingredient (not graded for skin benefits): PEG ether solubilizer; CIR PEG alkyl ethers context. Credible chemical identity and cosmetic-use context come from CIR/SCCS/manufacturer INCI definitions and databases such as SpecialChem/PubChem[1].

How to use it

Expect this as a supporting INCI line item unless labeled as a featured active.

What it does in the formula

Functional ingredient — not graded for skin benefits
PEG-20 isocetyl ether used to solubilize oils/fragrance in aqueous serums.[1]

Safety & limits

Source and region, always
all — Used in cosmetics within conventional leave-on/rinse-off levels; see cited safety literature.[1] CA US EU UK

Sources · 2

Numbered as cited in the text
  1. [1]Cosmetic Ingredient Review. PEG Alkyl Ethers. CIR (2015)regulator
  2. [2]SpecialChem. SpecialChem INCI profile: Isoceteth-20. SpecialChem (2024)other

Revision history

18 Sept 2026Drafted by botTheSkindex Desk
Isoceteth-20 — evidence, limits and safety · theskindex