🎯 At a Glance
🔬 How It Actually Works
A polyethylene glycol ether of cetyl alcohol. It acts as a surfactant, an emulsifier, and a highly effective solubilizer, forcing stubborn oils to mix into water.
💖 Why your skin loves it
Cleanses mildly, improves texture, and stabilizes complex formulations.
💡 Pro Tip
Often used in cleansing milks and lightweight lotions.
⚖️ Myth vs. Fact
The Myth
It dries out the skin.
The Science
It is an emollient surfactant, meaning it cleanses while leaving a softening lipid layer.