What Is C12-14 Sec-Pareth-15?
C12-14 Sec-Pareth-15 is a synthetically produced ingredient made by attaching about fifteen units of ethylene oxide to a blend of secondary fatty alcohols that have carbon chain lengths between twelve and fourteen. Those fatty alcohols originate from petroleum or plant oils that are chemically modified, then reacted with ethylene oxide in a controlled process called ethoxylation. The result is a water-soluble molecule with both oil-loving and water-loving parts, which makes it especially useful in skincare and haircare formulas.
The cosmetic industry began experimenting with ethoxylated alcohols in the mid-twentieth century when formulators looked for gentler alternatives to traditional soaps. Over time C12-14 Sec-Pareth-15 gained popularity because its balance of cleansing power and mildness suited the growing demand for more sophisticated emulsions and rinse-off products.
Today the ingredient is found in facial cleansers, body washes, shampoos, makeup removers, exfoliating masks and lightweight lotions. Its stabilising abilities also make it a supporting player in sunscreens, serums and anti-aging moisturisers where keeping oil and water phases evenly blended is essential for a pleasant feel and consistent performance.
C12-14 Sec-Pareth-15’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multifunctional ingredient contributes to product performance in several ways:
- Emulsion stabilising: It helps keep oil and water mixed together so creams and lotions stay smooth without separating during storage or use
- Cleansing: The molecule lifts away dirt oil and makeup, allowing them to rinse off easily with water which makes formulas feel gentle yet effective on skin and hair
- Emulsifying: It brings together otherwise incompatible ingredients letting formulators combine nourishing oils with watery actives to create lightweight textures that absorb quickly
Who Can Use C12-14 Sec-Pareth-15
C12-14 Sec-Pareth-15 is generally well tolerated by most skin types including oily, combination and normal skin thanks to its mild cleansing profile and low likelihood of clogging pores. People with very dry or highly reactive skin might experience a feeling of tightness after repeated use because any surfactant can remove some surface lipids, so pairing the product with a good moisturizer is advised if dryness is a concern.
The ingredient is produced from synthetic or plant-derived fatty alcohols and ethylene oxide, with no animal sourced components. This means products that use it can fit vegan and vegetarian lifestyles provided the overall formula and manufacturing process are free from animal testing or by-products.
No specific warnings exist for pregnant or breastfeeding women when C12-14 Sec-Pareth-15 is used in rinse-off or leave-on cosmetics at typical concentrations. Regulatory reviews have not flagged it as a reproductive or developmental toxin. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should check with a healthcare professional before adding new skincare products.
The ingredient is not known to cause photosensitivity so it will not increase the skin’s tendency to burn in sunlight. It is also safe for use on color-treated hair and does not interfere with common active ingredients like vitamin C or retinoids.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical C12-14 Sec-Pareth-15 vary between individuals. The issues listed below are possible yet uncommon when the ingredient is used at the levels normally found in cosmetics
- Mild skin irritation such as redness or stinging, especially on very sensitive or compromised skin
- Dryness or tight feeling after frequent use, more noticeable on already dry skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis in people who develop a specific sensitivity to ethoxylated compounds
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Increased penetration of other ingredients which could heighten their own irritation potential
If any of these reactions occur stop using the product and seek advice from a qualified medical professional
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
C12-14 Sec-Pareth-15 is highly water soluble and used at low levels so it tends to rinse clean without leaving an occlusive film that could trap oil or dead skin cells. Its ethoxylated structure also makes it less likely to lodge inside pores compared with heavier unmodified fatty alcohols. Because of this the risk of clogging pores is minimal.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin in most cases.
Formulas that pair it with heavier oils or waxes may still feel richer on the skin so overall product composition matters when judging break-out risk.
Summary
C12-14 Sec-Pareth-15 is a versatile helper ingredient that stabilises emulsions, emulsifies oils with water and adds gentle cleansing power. It does this by carrying both oil-loving and water-loving parts in the same molecule which lets it sit at the oil-water interface, keep mixtures uniform and surround dirt so it washes away easily.
While not the most talked-about ingredient, it shows up consistently in cleansers, shampoos and lightweight lotions because it offers reliable performance at a modest cost.
Safety reviews find it low in irritation potential and non-sensitising for the vast majority of users when formulated correctly. As with any new cosmetic apply a small amount on a discreet patch of skin first to confirm personal compatibility before regular use.