Nonoxynol-12 iodine is a nonylphenol ethoxylate derivative. Nonylphenol ethoxylates represent a group of synthetic, non-ionic surfactants derived from nonylphenols. They differ from one another in the number of hydrophilic ethoxy units of the polyethylene glycol side chain. The number of ethoxy units is declared in the name e.g. nonoxynol-12 iodines with 12 ethoxy units.
Nonoxynol-12 iodines are used in cosmetic formulations. The substance has an antimicrobial effect and helps to inhibit the growth of microorganisms on the skin.