What Is C40-60 Alketh-10?
C40-60 Alketh-10 is a synthetic ingredient made by attaching about ten units of ethylene oxide to long chain fatty alcohols that fall in the C40-C60 range. These fatty alcohols are produced in a lab rather than harvested from natural oils, giving chemists tight control over purity and performance. The finished material is a waxy, off-white solid that dissolves in water and oil, making it a handy bridge between the two.
The idea of linking fatty alcohols with ethylene oxide goes back to the mid-20th century when formulators were looking for reliable, non-soap emulsifiers for creams and lotions. As cosmetic textures became lighter and more sophisticated, C40-60 Alketh-10 found a niche because its long carbon chain offers strong oil affinity while the ethylene oxide portion attracts water. This balance helps stabilize modern oil-in-water systems better than many older ingredients.
Manufacturing starts with high molecular weight synthetic alcohols, which are reacted with ethylene oxide gas under controlled heat and pressure. The reaction is carefully monitored so that, on average, ten ethylene oxide units attach to each alcohol chain. After purification the material is flaked or pelletized for easy handling in factories.
You will most often see C40-60 Alketh-10 in moisturizers, sunscreens, anti-aging creams, cleansing balms, makeup removers, body butters and rinse-off masks where it helps keep oily ingredients evenly dispersed for a smooth look and feel.
C40-60 Alketh-10’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Its role in a formula is straightforward yet important.
As an emulsifying agent it binds water and oil into a stable mixture, stopping products from separating on the shelf or on your skin. This stability lets brands use a wider range of botanical oils, silicones and active ingredients without worrying about texture issues, leading to creams that spread easily, feel light and stay uniform from the first scoop to the last.
Who Can Use C40-60 Alketh-10
C40-60 Alketh-10 is generally well tolerated by all skin types, including dry, normal, combination and oily skin. Its emulsifying job is performed at low use levels that rarely cause heaviness or residue, though very oily or acne-prone users might prefer lighter formulas if they notice a coated feel.
The ingredient is fully synthetic and contains no animal-derived raw materials, so it is suitable for both vegetarians and vegans.
Current safety data show no reproductive or developmental concerns, meaning products containing C40-60 Alketh-10 are considered safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women when used as directed. This is not medical advice; if you are pregnant or nursing, check any skincare routine with a qualified healthcare professional.
C40-60 Alketh-10 does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight, and it has no known interactions with common actives like retinoids or acids. It can be used morning or night without extra sun precautions beyond regular sunscreen.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Individual reactions to topical ingredients vary. The effects listed below are only potential outcomes; most people will not experience them when C40-60 Alketh-10 is used at the levels typically found in cosmetics.
- Mild skin irritation such as temporary redness or itching, especially on very sensitive skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis in rare cases where a person is specifically sensitized to polyethylene glycol derivatives
- Eye stinging or watering if the raw material or a high-load product gets into the eyes before rinsing
- Follicular clogging or small breakouts for users already prone to congestion if the overall formula is too rich
If you notice any of these issues while using a product that contains C40-60 Alketh-10 stop using it and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
C40-60 Alketh-10 scores a 1 because its large, water-loving PEG side and hefty carbon chain make it sit mostly on the surface rather than slipping deep into pores. It is used at low levels and is washed off or spread thinly in most products, which keeps the chance of pore blockage low. Still, it is part fatty alcohol, so a small risk of congestion exists if the rest of the formula is very rich.
Overall this ingredient is considered acceptable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin, as long as the product as a whole is lightweight and non-greasy.
No additional concerns are noted in published comedogenicity studies, and it is not known to feed acne-causing bacteria.
Summary
C40-60 Alketh-10 is mainly an emulsifier that ties oil and water together for smooth, stable creams, lotions and balms. Its long carbon chain grabs onto oils while the ethylene oxide units attract water, letting brands pack more skin-loving ingredients into one even blend.
The ingredient is moderately popular. You will see it in some sunscreens, cleansing balms and body butters, but it is not as common as shorter PEG fatty alcohols because its high molecular weight makes it costlier and a bit harder to process.
Safety reviews rate it as low risk with only rare irritation or allergy reports. Most people can use it daily without trouble. As with any new product, apply a small amount on a discreet area first to check for unexpected reactions just to be safe.