Oleth-3

What is Oleth-3?

A polyethylene glycol ether of oleyl alcohol with 3 moles of ethylene oxide, a low-HLB emulsifier and emollient.

Why is it used in products?

It serves as a lipophilic emulsifier that helps create rich, moisturizing water-in-oil formulations.

Why does it clog pores?

Oleth-3 combines the comedogenic properties of oleyl alcohol with a low ethoxylation level that keeps it lipophilic and pore-penetrating. It disrupts the follicular lipid barrier and deposits an oleic acid-derived residue inside pores. This leads to comedone formation, especially with prolonged skin contact.

Commonly found in

• creams
• lotions
• body butters
• hair products