What Is C12-15 Alketh-6 Phosphate?
C12-15 Alketh-6 Phosphate is a blend of fatty alcohols that have been chemically joined to ethylene oxide, then linked with phosphoric acid to form a phosphate ester. The fatty alcohol part comes from medium-chain synthetic or plant-derived sources, usually coconut or palm oil. First explored in the late 1970s as formulators searched for milder surfactants, the ingredient gained popularity because it could clean the skin while also helping oil and water mix. Production starts with C12-15 fatty alcohols that react with ethylene oxide to create a molecule known as a pareth-6. This intermediate is then treated with phosphoric acid, producing the final phosphate ester that appears as a clear to pale yellow liquid.
Its mix of cleaning power and emulsifying ability makes it a workhorse in many personal care items. You will often see it in facial cleansers, body washes, micellar waters, makeup removers, shampoos, lightweight lotions, sunscreens and exfoliating masks where it helps keep formulas stable and skin feel soft after rinsing.
C12-15 Alketh-6 Phosphate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In day-to-day beauty products this ingredient mainly does two jobs that improve how a formula looks, feels and performs:
- Cleansing: Lifts away dirt, excess oil and makeup so skin and hair feel fresh without a tight afterfeel
- Emulsifying: Helps water and oil stay blended which prevents separation, gives lotions and creams a smooth texture and keeps active ingredients evenly distributed
Who Can Use C12-15 Alketh-6 Phosphate
Thanks to its mild cleansing profile and low irritation potential, C12-15 Alketh-6 Phosphate is considered suitable for most skin types including dry, normal, combination, oily and even sensitive skin that reacts to harsher sulphate surfactants. People with very compromised or broken skin barriers should still proceed cautiously, as any surfactant can feel stripping if overused.
The ingredient is typically manufactured from coconut or palm‐derived fatty alcohols and synthetic processing aids, with no animal by-products involved. This makes it appropriate for both vegans and vegetarians provided the finished product has not been tested on animals.
No data indicate that topical use poses a risk during pregnancy or breastfeeding. While it is generally viewed as safe at the low concentrations found in cosmetics, this is not medical advice and anyone pregnant or nursing should review all skincare choices with a qualified healthcare provider.
C12-15 Alketh-6 Phosphate does not increase photosensitivity and can be used morning or night without boosting sunburn risk. It is also readily biodegradable, which may appeal to environmentally minded consumers.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Individual responses to skincare ingredients vary. The points below outline possible side effects associated with C12-15 Alketh-6 Phosphate, yet most people will experience none of them when the ingredient is used at standard cosmetic levels.
- Mild stinging or redness if applied to broken or highly inflamed skin
- Temporary eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Rare cases of allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to phosphate esters or residual processing agents
Discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if any irritation, swelling or persistent discomfort occurs.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5 – C12-15 Alketh-6 Phosphate is a lightweight phosphate ester that stays mostly on the surface and rinses clean without leaving a waxy or oily film, so it has little tendency to block pores. Most formulas use it in low concentrations and often as a rinse-off agent, further lowering any clogging risk. Because of this, it is generally suitable for acne-prone skin, though individual reactions can differ.
The rating could rise slightly if the ingredient sits on the skin for long periods in a leave-on product combined with heavy occlusives, but in typical cleansers or lotions it remains very low.
Summary
C12-15 Alketh-6 Phosphate works mainly as a cleanser and emulsifier. Its surfactant portion loosens dirt, makeup and excess oil while the phosphate head helps water blend with oils, keeping formulas stable and smooth. This dual action lets product developers slim down ingredient lists without sacrificing performance.
Although not a buzzworthy superstar, it is quietly popular in everyday cleansers, micellar waters and light creams because it offers mildness, versatility and biodegradability at a reasonable cost.
Current safety data show a low irritation profile for most users, with rare allergic reactions. As with any new skincare ingredient, do a quick patch test when trying products that contain C12-15 Alketh-6 Phosphate to make sure your skin agrees with it.