Oleth-3 Phosphate

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).