What Is C22-24 Alketh-33?
C22-24 Alketh-33 is a polyethylene glycol ether created from a mix of long chain synthetic fatty alcohols that each have 22 to 24 carbon atoms. On average 33 units of ethylene oxide are attached to every fatty alcohol molecule which gives the ingredient its water loving character. The fatty alcohol base can be sourced from refined vegetable oils or petroleum fractions, then purified and blended to reach the desired chain length. During manufacturing the alcohol mix undergoes ethoxylation, a controlled reaction where ethylene oxide gas is added under heat and pressure. The result is a waxy solid that dissolves easily in water and helps other oily ingredients do the same.
Similar ethoxylated alcohols have been used in personal care since the 1950s when chemists looked for gentler alternatives to soap. The C22-24 version entered cosmetic formulas later as brands demanded milder high performance surfactants that leave skin soft. Today you can spot it in facial cleansers, micellar waters, makeup removing balms, exfoliating masks, creamy body washes, shampoo concentrates, lightweight lotions and some anti aging serums where it keeps oil soluble actives evenly dispersed.
C22-24 Alketh-33’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
C22-24 Alketh-33 brings a couple of key perks that make life easier for product chemists and pleasant for your skin.
- Cleansing – Acts as a gentle surfactant that lifts away excess oil dirt and makeup without stripping the skin’s natural barrier leaving it feeling comfortable and smooth
- Solubilizing – Helps blend small amounts of essential oils fragrances or oily actives into water based formulas so the product stays clear stable and effective from the first pump to the last
Who Can Use C22-24 Alketh-33
C22-24 Alketh-33 is generally well tolerated by all skin types. Oily and combination skin appreciate its light cleansing feel while dry or mature skin benefit from the fact it does not strip away moisture. Sensitive skin users usually do fine with it because it is a mild surfactant though anyone who has had problems with polyethylene glycol (PEG) ingredients in the past may prefer to steer clear just in case.
The fatty alcohols in C22-24 Alketh-33 are made synthetically or from plant based oils and the ethoxylation step does not involve any animal material so the ingredient itself is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. As always, final product formulas can vary, so check with the brand if ethical sourcing is a priority.
There is no published evidence that C22-24 Alketh-33 poses a risk to women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. It stays on the surface of the skin, is used in very small amounts and is not known to interfere with hormones. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should have their doctor review new skincare products to be safe.
The ingredient does not make skin more likely to burn in the sun and it has no known effect on tanning treatments or other topical actives. Standard daily sun protection is still recommended because UV rays remain the main cause of photoaging.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to any cosmetic ingredient can differ between individuals. The points below show potential side effects that have been noted with surfactants in the same family. They are uncommon and most users will not notice any issues when products are formulated correctly.
- Mild skin irritation – slight redness or itching can appear, especially on very sensitive skin or when the surrounding formula has a high surfactant load
- Contact dermatitis – rare allergy that may lead to rash or swelling if the immune system reacts to PEG chains
- Eye stinging – possible when high foaming cleansers get into the eyes during use
- Dryness or tightness – can occur if the ingredient is used at higher than necessary levels in leave on products
If any discomfort or unusual reaction develops stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5. C22-24 Alketh-33 has a large molecular size and high level of ethoxylation which keep it mostly on the skin surface and easy to rinse off. It is added in low percentages, usually under 5 percent, and is designed to help oils disperse rather than sit in pores. For these reasons it shows minimal tendency to clog pores.
Suitable for acne prone or breakout prone skin in both rinse off and leave on formats.
The only time pore congestion might become a concern is if the finished product pairs C22-24 Alketh-33 with heavy occlusive oils or waxes. In that case the overall formula, not this single ingredient, would be the issue.
Summary
C22-24 Alketh-33 works as a mild cleanser and trusty solubilizer. Its long fatty alcohol chain grabs on to oils while the attached polyethylene glycol units love water, allowing it to lift grime off the skin and keep tiny amounts of fragrance or oily actives evenly mixed in watery bases.
It is not a headline ingredient and you will mostly find it tucked into modern micellar waters, cleansing balms or lightweight lotions where formulators need a gentle push to keep oils and water playing nicely. Though not as famous as glycerin or hyaluronic acid it quietly does its job without fuss.
Current safety data show low irritation potential, no evidence of hormonal effects and negligible comedogenicity. As with any new skincare product a short patch test on a small area is still wise to make sure your individual skin agrees with the full formula.