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Oleth-3 Phosphate

Average

Cleansing Agent

No known benefits

Oleth-3 Phosphate at a glance

  • mproves formula texture, mixing oil and water ingredients
  • Assists in dispersing insoluble compounds in products
  • Exists as a liquid with a colorless-to-brown raw material
  • Might be skin-sensitizing

Oleth-3 Phosphate description

Oleth-3 phosphate is an emulsifying, cleansing and dispersing agent used in skin care. This molecule is a combination of ethoxylated fatty acid oleic acid and the dense liquid phosphoric acid. As an emulsifier, it allows oil and water ingredients to mix cohesively in cosmetic formulas. It also serves to evenly disperse ingredients in a formula that are incapable of dissolving in a solvent. Oleth-3 phosphate is a liquid, colorless-to-brown raw material. Reports from the nineties centering around oleth-3 phosphate and oleth-5 reference the two as potential skin sensitizers. However, more research needs to be completed about this ingredient to come to a solid conclusion regarding its potential as a skin sensitizer as well as its potential to clog pores (comedogenicity).

Related ingredients: Oleths

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Oleth-3 Phosphate references

  • Clariant, Webpage, Accessed February 2023
  • PubChem, Webpage, Accessed February 2023
  • Contact Dermatitis, October 1997, page 188

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.