Ceteareth-20
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What Is Ceteareth-20?
A polyethylene glycol ether of cetearyl alcohol used as an emulsifier. It helps blend oil and water phases in conditioners and creams.
Source: Cetearyl alcohol with ethylene oxide (PEGylated)
Origin: Synthetic
Also known as: PEG-20 Cetearyl Ether
What Does Ceteareth-20 Do to Your Hair?
Stabilizes oil-in-water emulsions in conditioners and creams, keeping the product from separating. Works with fatty alcohols to create rich, creamy product textures that spread easily through hair.
Best For
All hair types
Not Recommended For
Sensitive scalp (PEG sensitivity)
Concentration Matters
1-5% in products
Hair Type Compatibility
Method Compatibility
Safety & Regulation
Generally safe but contains PEG compounds which can potentially be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane if not properly purified. Reputable manufacturers ensure purification. May be mildly irritating to very sensitive scalps.
FDA Status: Generally Recognized As Safe
FDA permits use in cosmetics. PEG compounds are considered safe when properly manufactured to limit 1,4-dioxane.
EWG Score: 3/10
HairAide Verdict
A functional emulsifier that keeps your conditioner creamy and stable. The PEG concern is minimal with quality brands. Not the cleanest option but poses very low real-world risk.
Products That Contain Ceteareth-20
Conditioners, styling creams, hair masks, leave-in treatments
Alternatives to Ceteareth-20
If you want to avoid Ceteareth-20, look for products with these ingredients instead:
Glyceryl Stearate, Cetearyl Alcohol + Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Sorbitan Oleate
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Ceteareth-20 has a safety rating of 7/10 and is generally considered safe for use in hair products. Generally safe but contains PEG compounds which can potentially be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane if not properly purified. Reputable manufacturers ensure purification. May be mildly irritating to very sensitive scalps.
Ceteareth-20 is not CG-method approved. Curly hair types may want to avoid this ingredient or use products containing it sparingly.
No, Ceteareth-20 is not approved for the Curly Girl method.
Some alternatives to Ceteareth-20 include: Glyceryl Stearate, Cetearyl Alcohol + Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Sorbitan Oleate
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