What Is C12-13 Pareth-23?
C12-13 Pareth-23 is a synthetic ingredient made by reacting naturally sourced fatty alcohols from coconut or palm oil that have 12 to 13 carbon atoms with about 23 units of ethylene oxide. This process, called ethoxylation, turns the originally oil-loving alcohols into molecules that love both oil and water, which makes them handy in many personal care products. Chemists began exploring ethoxylated alcohols in the mid-20th century as gentler alternatives to early soaps, and over time C12-13 Pareth-23 found a niche in modern skin and hair formulas.
The ingredient is produced in large reactors where the fatty alcohols are treated with controlled amounts of ethylene oxide under heat and pressure. The final material is a clear or slightly hazy liquid that can dissolve in water and oils, which helps it mix easily into finished products.
You will notice C12-13 Pareth-23 on the label of facial cleansers, micellar waters, exfoliating masks, makeup removers, shampoos, conditioners, body washes, light lotions and even some anti-aging serums that need help keeping oil and water phases blended.
C12-13 Pareth-23’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators reach for C12-13 Pareth-23 because it offers several practical benefits in one versatile package.
- Cleansing: Its oil-and-water friendly structure lifts dirt, excess sebum and makeup from skin and hair then carries them away when rinsed, leaving a fresh clean feel without a tight after-sensation.
- Emulsifying: It helps keep water and oil ingredients evenly mixed so creams, lotions and serums stay smooth and stable throughout their shelf life which means consistent texture and performance for the user.
Who Can Use C12-13 Pareth-23
C12-13 Pareth-23 is generally well tolerated by most skin types including normal, oily, combination and even sensitive skin because it is considered a mild surfactant that rinses away without leaving a heavy residue. Very dry or highly compromised skin may notice a slight feeling of tightness if the formula contains a high level of the ingredient since cleansing agents can remove some surface lipids, so people in that group might prefer richer cleansers with added moisturizers.
The ingredient is synthetic and typically sourced from coconut or palm plants so it fits within vegan and vegetarian guidelines as no animal derivatives are involved at any stage of production.
Current safety reviews show no evidence that topical use poses a risk during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Still this is not medical advice and pregnant or nursing individuals should discuss any skincare routine with their healthcare provider to be absolutely sure.
C12-13 Pareth-23 does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight so it is not considered a photosensitizer. It is also odorless so it usually does not interfere with fragrance-sensitive routines.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to C12-13 Pareth-23 differ from person to person. The following points outline potential side effects though most users will not experience them when the ingredient is correctly formulated within a product.
- Mild skin irritation reactive or very sensitive skin might notice temporary redness stinging or dryness especially if the overall formula is high in cleansing agents
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes it can cause watering or a brief burning sensation until rinsed out
- Contact dermatitis rare cases of allergic response have been reported with ethoxylated alcohols leading to itching or rash
If any irritation or discomfort occurs discontinue use and seek medical advice if symptoms persist
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
C12-13 Pareth-23 dissolves readily in water and is typically used in rinse-off products, so it does not linger on the skin long enough to clog pores. Its molecular structure favors dispersing oils rather than depositing them, which keeps pore blockage risk low. Because of this it is usually fine for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin. Only in very high leave-on concentrations could it potentially contribute to congestion, a scenario rarely seen in consumer formulas.
As with many surfactants, any comedogenic concern is more about the overall formula than this single ingredient; heavy oils, waxes or poor rinsing technique will have a bigger impact on pore health.
Summary
C12-13 Pareth-23 is valued for two main jobs: it lifts away dirt oil and makeup for effective yet gentle cleansing and it keeps water and oil phases mixed so creams and lotions stay smooth and stable. It performs these roles thanks to its dual-affinity structure, with a water-loving ethoxylated head and an oil-loving hydrocarbon tail.
You will spot it most often in face washes, micellar waters, shampoos and lightweight lotions. It is not a headline ingredient like hyaluronic acid or vitamin C, but formulators appreciate it as a reliable workhorse that quietly improves texture and performance.
Current research and safety assessments rate C12-13 Pareth-23 as low risk for irritation, allergies or pore clogging when used as directed. Still every skin is unique, so it is wise to patch test any new product containing this or any other surfactant to ensure personal compatibility.