What Is C11-15 Alketh-30?
C11-15 Alketh-30 is a man-made ingredient created by attaching about 30 units of ethylene oxide to a blend of synthetic fatty alcohols that contain 11 to 15 carbon atoms. The result is a clear to slightly hazy liquid that mixes easily with both water and oil, which makes it valuable in modern cosmetic formulas. Chemists began working with fatty alcohol ethoxylates in the mid-20th century as they searched for gentler alternatives to traditional soaps. Over time these compounds gained steady acceptance in personal care products because they could cleanse without stripping skin or hair.
Production starts with petroleum-derived or plant-based fatty alcohols that are purified, then reacted with ethylene oxide gas under controlled heat and pressure. The number “30” indicates the average number of ethylene oxide units added, a detail that influences how well the final ingredient dissolves oils and forms stable mixtures.
You are most likely to spot C11-15 Alketh-30 in liquid cleansers, facial washes, micellar waters, makeup removers, exfoliating masks, bath gels, shampoo, body washes and some lightweight lotions that need help combining water and oil components.
C11-15 Alketh-30’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasking ingredient improves both how a product feels and how effectively it cleans.
- Cleansing: Lifts dirt, oil and makeup from the skin or hair so they can be rinsed away with water, helping formulas foam lightly and leave a fresh finish
- Solubilizing: Helps disperse fragrance oils, essential oils or other oily actives evenly in water-based products, preventing separation and ensuring consistent performance with every use
Who Can Use C11-15 Alketh-30
C11-15 Alketh-30 is generally considered suitable for most skin types, including oily, combination, normal and dry skin, because it rinses clean without leaving a heavy residue. Those with very sensitive or compromised skin should take note that any surfactant, even mild ones like this, can occasionally feel drying or cause mild irritation if overused.
The ingredient is synthetic and not derived from animal sources, so it aligns with vegan and vegetarian preferences. Always confirm with the finished brand though, as other ingredients in the same product may not be animal free.
Current safety data does not flag C11-15 Alketh-30 as a concern for pregnant or breastfeeding women when applied topically. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should review their skincare routine with a qualified healthcare professional to be certain.
C11-15 Alketh-30 does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and has no known impact on how a sunscreen performs.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical C11-15 Alketh-30 differ from person to person. The points below describe potential but uncommon effects. When used at the concentrations typically found in personal care products most people experience none of these issues.
- Mild skin irritation such as temporary redness or stinging, especially on very sensitive skin
- Dryness or tightness if the surrounding formula lacks adequate moisturizers
- Eye irritation if a cleanser containing the ingredient is not rinsed thoroughly
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis in individuals already sensitized to ethoxylated compounds
If you notice irritation or any unexpected reaction stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5 – C11-15 Alketh-30 is highly water soluble, has a low molecular weight that allows it to rinse off cleanly and is used at low percentages in rinse-off products. Because it does not leave an oily film on the skin it has no practical potential to clog pores. This makes it generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
No studies or user reports link C11-15 Alketh-30 to increased comedone formation. Its presence in a formula is unlikely to override the overall non-comedogenic nature of a well-balanced cleanser or micellar water.
Summary
C11-15 Alketh-30 is a synthetic surfactant and solubilizer that lifts dirt oil and makeup while keeping watery formulas stable. By attaching 30 units of ethylene oxide to mid-chain fatty alcohols chemists created a molecule that dissolves in both water and oil so it can surround grime then rinse it away without stripping.
You will see it most often in face washes micellar waters shampoo and light lotions, but it is not one of the industry’s headline ingredients which means it quietly does its job behind the scenes rather than driving marketing campaigns.
Current research and decades of safe use show a very low risk of irritation or other adverse effects when used as directed. Still everyone’s skin is unique so it is wise to patch test any new product that lists C11-15 Alketh-30 just to be sure your skin agrees with the full formula.