What Is C12-14 Sec-Alketh-30?
C12-14 Sec-Alketh-30 is a synthetic ingredient made by attaching about 30 units of ethylene oxide to a blend of secondary alcohols that contain 12 to 14 carbon atoms. These alcohols are created in the lab rather than taken from natural oils, which lets manufacturers keep quality and performance the same from batch to batch. First introduced in the late twentieth century as part of the broader family of ethoxylated alcohols, it quickly found a place in skin and hair care because it helps water and oil mix smoothly.
Production starts with the chosen alcohols, which react with ethylene oxide gas under controlled heat and pressure. The result is a clear or slightly hazy liquid that dissolves in water. By adjusting the number of ethylene oxide units, chemists can fine-tune how well the ingredient blends oil and water, how mild it feels on skin and how thick or thin it makes a formula.
You will most often spot C12-14 Sec-Alketh-30 in products where a stable, uniform texture is critical. Common examples include facial cleansers, lightweight moisturizers, sheet mask essences, anti-aging serums, exfoliating liquids, leave-in hair treatments and sprayable sunscreens. Its balance of solubility, mildness and thickening power makes it a handy choice for brands that want to avoid heavier waxes or gums.
C12-14 Sec-Alketh-30’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In day-to-day beauty products this multitasker delivers two key technical perks
- Emulsifying – Keeps oil and water bonded together so the product does not split in the bottle or on your skin, giving you an even dose of active ingredients every time
- Emulsion stabilising – Reinforces the finished emulsion over weeks or months which helps maintain the ideal texture, appearance and shelf life of lotions, serums and sprays
Who Can Use C12-14 Sec-Alketh-30
C12-14 Sec-Alketh-30 suits most skin types including oily, combination, normal and dry because it is lightweight and water soluble so it will not leave a heavy film. Sensitive skin generally tolerates it well, yet people with a history of reactions to ethoxylated ingredients might want to be cautious since the molecule belongs to that family. Acne-prone users usually find it non clogging thanks to its low occlusive nature.
The ingredient is produced entirely from synthetic alcohols and ethylene oxide, with no animal raw materials or by-products, so it is considered vegan and vegetarian friendly.
No data suggests that C12-14 Sec-Alketh-30 poses a special risk during pregnancy or while breastfeeding; systemic absorption through intact skin is expected to be minimal. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review all skincare choices with a qualified doctor just to be safe.
The ingredient does not increase photosensitivity and will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It is also fragrance free, gluten free and safe for use on the scalp in hair care formulas.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical use of C12-14 Sec-Alketh-30 can vary from person to person. The following is a list of potential reactions that could occur even though they are unlikely for the average user when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.
- Mild skin irritation a slight stinging or burning sensation in very sensitive individuals
- Transient redness temporary flushing or warmth at the application site that usually fades quickly
- Contact dermatitis rare cases of itching or rash in people allergic to ethoxylated surfactants
- Dryness or tightness if used in a high-foaming cleanser without adequate moisturizers
- Eye irritation watering or stinging if the product accidentally enters the eyes
If any of these effects occur stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5 (very low)
C12-14 Sec-Alketh-30 is highly water soluble and does not form an occlusive film on skin, so it is unlikely to trap oil or debris in pores. Its molecular size and quick rinse-off profile in most formulas further reduce the chance of clogging. For these reasons it receives a very low comedogenic score of 1.
That makes it generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
Keep in mind that an entire formula can behave differently from a single ingredient. Heavy oils, waxes or silicones paired with C12-14 Sec-Alketh-30 could still raise the overall pore-clogging risk.
Summary
C12-14 Sec-Alketh-30 is a synthetic, vegan-friendly surfactant that mainly acts as an emulsifier and emulsion stabiliser. Its chain of roughly 30 ethylene oxide units attracts water while the alcohol backbone grabs onto oils, letting it bridge the two phases so lotions, serums and sprays stay smooth and uniform over time.
The ingredient is moderately popular in mainstream skin and hair care. It is not as well known as classic emulsifiers like polysorbates yet formulators appreciate its light feel and reliability, so you will spot it in a fair number of cleansers, leave-ins and fluid moisturisers.
Current safety data shows a low risk of irritation or sensitisation when used as directed, and systemic absorption is minimal. As with any new cosmetic product it is wise to patch test first to make sure your skin agrees with the complete formula.