What Is C14-15 Pareth-12?
C14-15 Pareth-12 is a synthetic ingredient created by reacting fatty alcohols that have 14 to 15 carbon atoms with ethylene oxide, averaging 12 units of ethoxylation. The resulting molecule combines an oil-loving alcohol segment with water-loving ethoxy groups, giving it the ability to interact with both oil and water. This technology emerged in the mid-20th century when chemists began modifying natural fatty alcohols to improve the feel and performance of soaps and creams. Today the process is carried out in closed reactors where purified C14-15 alcohols are treated with carefully measured ethylene oxide under heat and pressure, then neutralized and filtered for cosmetic use.
You will often spot C14-15 Pareth-12 in rinse-off products such as facial cleansers, body washes and shampoos where it helps remove dirt and excess oil. It is also added to leave-on items like lightweight lotions, serums and makeup removers because it can keep oil and water components evenly mixed while maintaining a smooth skin feel.
C14-15 Pareth-12’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasking ingredient brings two main perks to personal care formulas
- Cleansing: Its dual affinity for oil and water allows it to surround and lift away sebum, makeup and daily grime so they can be rinsed off easily, leading to a fresh clean finish without harsh scrubbing
- Emulsifying: By stabilizing mixtures of oil and water it prevents products from separating on the shelf, ensuring a consistent texture and even distribution of active ingredients each time you apply the product
Who Can Use C14-15 Pareth-12
C14-15 Pareth-12 is generally well tolerated by most skin types including normal, oily and combination skin because it cleanses without leaving a greasy film or heavy residue. Dry or very sensitive skin may need to monitor use in leave-on products since any surfactant can contribute to a tight feeling if the formula lacks enough moisturizers.
The ingredient is synthesized in a lab and is not sourced from animals, so it is usually suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Manufacturers often start with plant-derived fatty alcohols or petroleum fractions, neither of which involve animal byproducts.
Current safety data show no reason to avoid C14-15 Pareth-12 during pregnancy or breastfeeding, but this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review all skincare choices with a qualified health professional.
It does not increase photosensitivity and will not make skin more prone to sunburn. The ingredient is also odorless and colorless so it rarely interferes with fragrance or dye sensitivities.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Skin responses to C14-15 Pareth-12 vary from person to person. The effects below are only potential reactions and are unlikely for the average user when the ingredient is properly formulated in a cosmetic product.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness or stinging, more common in very sensitive or compromised skin
- Transient eye irritation if the cleanser accidentally gets into the eyes
- Dryness or tightness when used in high concentrations or in products not balanced with moisturizers
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis presenting as itching or a rash
- Over-cleansing that strips natural oils leading to temporary flakiness in some individuals
If any of these effects occur stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5. C14-15 Pareth-12 is an ethoxylated surfactant that is water-soluble and usually used in low amounts, so it tends not to linger in pores or leave a heavy film that could trap oil or dead cells. It is therefore unlikely to clog pores in most formulations. People who are prone to acne can generally use products containing this ingredient without added risk of breakouts.
Because it is almost always paired with rinsing or lightweight leave-on bases, any residue is minimal, which keeps the pore-clogging potential very low.
Summary
C14-15 Pareth-12 works as a cleanser and an emulsifier. Its oil-loving tail grabs onto sebum and makeup while its water-loving ethoxy chain pulls those impurities into water so they rinse away. The same two-sided structure helps blend oils and water in a formula so the texture stays smooth and even from the first pump to the last.
You will see it fairly often in face washes, body washes, shampoos and some lightweight lotions, though it is not as famous as classic surfactants like sodium lauryl sulfate. Formulators appreciate its gentle feel and reliable performance so it shows up in many mid-range and premium lines.
Current data and decades of use show C14-15 Pareth-12 is considered safe for skin and eyes when used at levels typical for cosmetics. As with any new product, it is wise to do a quick patch test to check your personal tolerance before adding it to your daily routine.