What Is C30-50 Alketh-10?
C30-50 Alketh-10 is a man-made ingredient created by reacting long chain synthetic alcohols that contain 30 to 50 carbon atoms with about ten units of ethylene oxide. This process forms a polyethylene glycol ether, which means the final material has both oil-loving and water-loving parts. Because of this dual nature it can blend oily and watery ingredients that would not normally mix.
The raw materials used are petrochemical or plant-derived alcohols that are first purified, then combined with ethylene oxide under controlled pressure and temperature. The average of ten ethylene oxide units is what the “-10” in the name refers to, and it directly influences how well the ingredient can dissolve in water.
The compound first appeared in the cosmetic world in the late 1970s when chemists looked for nonionic emulsifiers that were gentler than older soap-based systems. Over time it replaced some naturally derived waxes because it offers reliable performance, clear formulations, and a longer shelf life.
Today C30-50 Alketh-10 is most often found in rich moisturizers, facial masks, anti-aging creams, cleansing balms, sunscreens, and hair conditioners where it helps keep formulas smooth and stable.
C30-50 Alketh-10’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In skin and hair products C30-50 Alketh-10 serves one main purpose that brings several formulating advantages.
As an emulsifying agent, it binds oil and water into a uniform mixture so creams feel silky, do not separate over time, and deliver active ingredients evenly across the skin or hair. This improves texture, boosts product stability, and enhances the overall user experience.
Who Can Use C30-50 Alketh-10
C30-50 Alketh-10 is generally suitable for all skin types including dry, normal, combination, sensitive and oily. Because it is used at low concentrations and does not leave a heavy film it rarely clogs pores, yet people with very acne-prone or extremely oily skin may prefer lighter formulas where the ingredient is combined with fast-absorbing carriers.
The raw materials are either petrochemical or plant derived and no animal byproducts are involved, so the ingredient is considered appropriate for vegans and vegetarians.
No specific data suggest that C30-50 Alketh-10 poses a risk to pregnant or breastfeeding women when applied topically, but this is not medical advice. Anyone who is expecting or nursing should have a doctor review their skincare routine to be sure every product fits their individual needs.
The ingredient does not increase photosensitivity and does not degrade when exposed to sunlight, so it does not raise the chance of sunburn.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical C30-50 Alketh-10 vary from person to person. The effects listed below are only potential outcomes and are unlikely for most users when the ingredient is properly formulated in a finished product.
- Mild skin irritation – slight redness or stinging can occur in people with highly reactive skin
- Contact dermatitis – rare cases of rash or itching have been documented with other polyethylene glycol ethers and may theoretically happen here
- Eye irritation – if a product accidentally gets into the eyes it may cause temporary tearing or discomfort until rinsed out
- Allergic reaction – very uncommon but possible for individuals already sensitized to similar nonionic surfactants
If any negative effect develops discontinue use and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 (very low)
C30-50 Alketh-10 is a large, nonionic emulsifier that sits on the surface rather than slipping deep into pores. It is used at small percentages, has no oily residue, and is easily removed during cleansing. For these reasons it carries only a slight chance of clogging pores.
This makes it generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts, provided the rest of the formula is also low in comedogenic ingredients.
Because the raw material is purified and the finished ingredient is highly stable, it is unlikely to oxidize into pore-clogging by-products over time, which further keeps its rating low.
Summary
C30-50 Alketh-10 is an emulsifier that brings oil and water together so creams stay smooth and deliver their benefits evenly. Its dual nature, with both water-loving and oil-loving parts, allows it to keep formulas stable and pleasing to use.
It is not a headline ingredient but it is quietly popular among formulators who want reliable performance in rich moisturizers, sunscreens and cleansing balms without adding heaviness.
Safety data show a very low risk of irritation or pore blockage when the ingredient is used within normal cosmetic levels. Still, everyone’s skin is unique, so it is wise to try any new product on a small area first to check for personal sensitivity.