What Is C12-14 Alketh-7?
C12-14 Alketh-7 is a man-made ingredient created by attaching about seven units of ethylene oxide to a blend of synthetic fatty alcohols that have 12 to 14 carbon atoms. The finished material is a clear to slightly hazy liquid that mixes easily with both oil and water.
The fatty alcohols that start the process are usually derived from plant oils such as coconut or palm. Chemists react these alcohols with ethylene oxide in a controlled setting, step by step adding the oxide units until the average of seven units is reached. This process, called ethoxylation, has been used since the mid-20th century to make many mild surfactants and emulsifiers for personal care.
Because it helps oil and water stay blended, C12-14 Alketh-7 quickly found a place in everyday cosmetics. It is now common in rinse-off cleansers, facial masks, lightweight lotions, sprayable sunscreens, makeup removers and hair conditioners. Formulators appreciate its balance of mildness and cleaning power, which makes it suitable for products aimed at both face and body care.
C12-14 Alketh-7’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient serves one key role in a formulation
Emulsifying: C12-14 Alketh-7 keeps oil and water from separating, giving a product a smooth uniform texture. A stable emulsion feels pleasant on the skin, spreads evenly, delivers active ingredients more reliably and stays looking fresh on the shelf.
Who Can Use C12-14 Alketh-7
Thanks to its mild nature and light texture, C12-14 Alketh-7 suits most skin types including dry, normal, combination and oily skin. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it well too because it is non-ionic and does not disturb the skin’s natural pH. People with very reactive or allergy-prone skin should still check the full ingredient list of a product to be sure no other components pose an issue.
The fatty alcohols used to make C12-14 Alketh-7 come from plant sources, and no animal-derived materials are needed in its production. That makes it appropriate for both vegans and vegetarians as long as the finished product carries no animal additives elsewhere in the formula.
Current safety assessments do not flag any special risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when this ingredient is applied topically in cosmetic amounts. This is not medical advice so anyone who is pregnant or nursing should let their healthcare provider look over any skincare routine for extra peace of mind.
C12-14 Alketh-7 does not increase photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. Normal daily sun protection practices remain recommended for overall skin health.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical C12-14 Alketh-7 differ from person to person. The points below describe potential effects yet most users will not notice any problems when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.
- Mild transient stinging especially on broken or freshly exfoliated skin
- Localized redness in individuals with very sensitive or compromised skin barriers
- Contact irritation or dermatitis in rare cases of personal sensitivity to ethoxylated ingredients
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes before rinsing
If you notice itching, burning or any persistent discomfort stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
C12-14 Alketh-7 is largely water soluble and does not leave a heavy, oily film on the skin. Its molecular structure has a small fatty portion balanced by several ethylene oxide units, so it rinses clean rather than clogging pores. Formulas that use it at typical levels rely on it for texture rather than occlusion, which is why it earns a low rating of 1.
Because of this, products containing C12-14 Alketh-7 are generally suitable for people prone to acne or breakouts.
One thing to keep in mind is that the overall comedogenic potential of any product depends on the full ingredient list, not just one component.
Summary
C12-14 Alketh-7 is an emulsifier that keeps oil and water mixed by pairing a lipophilic fatty alcohol chain with a hydrophilic polyethylene glycol section. This dual nature lets it stabilize lotions, cleansers and sprays so they stay uniform, feel light on the skin and deliver actives evenly.
It is a workhorse rather than a headline ingredient. You will find it quietly doing its job in many mainstream cleansers, wipes, sunscreens and lightweight moisturizers though it rarely gets top billing on the label.
Current safety reviews rate it as low risk when used in cosmetic concentrations. Most skin types, including sensitive skin, tolerate it well. As with any new skincare product, a quick patch test is wise to rule out personal sensitivities.