What Is Dea-C12-13 Alketh-3 Sulfate?
Dea-C12-13 Alketh-3 Sulfate is a synthetic surfactant made by linking medium-chain coconut or palm kernel fatty alcohols (mostly 12 and 13 carbon atoms) with three units of ethylene oxide, then adding a sulfate group and finally neutralizing the mixture with diethanolamine. The result is a water-soluble salt that helps water mix with oils and dirt. Surfactants like this began replacing traditional soaps in the 1950s when formulators needed milder, more versatile cleansers for emerging liquid shampoos and body washes. Production involves three key steps: ethoxylation of the fatty alcohols, sulfation of the ethoxylated alcohol, and neutralization with diethanolamine to form the stable salt used in cosmetics. Today you will most often find it in shampoos, shower gels, facial cleansers, bubble baths, hand soaps and occasionally in makeup removing wipes or micellar waters where robust but gentle cleansing is required.
Dea-C12-13 Alketh-3 Sulfate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In personal care formulas this ingredient plays one primary role.
Cleansing: As a surfactant it lowers the surface tension of water so oils, sebum and everyday grime can be lifted from skin and hair then rinsed away. Its balanced fatty alcohol chain provides good foaming and lather, while the ethoxylation step keeps the molecule mild enough for daily use. Formulators like it because it creates a rich creamy foam, works well in hard or soft water and remains stable over a broad pH range, all of which contribute to a pleasant cleansing experience.
Who Can Use Dea-C12-13 Alketh-3 Sulfate
This surfactant suits most skin and hair types, including normal, oily and combination. Dry or sensitive complexions may find it a little too efficient at lifting oils, especially if the formula pairs it with other strong cleansers or a high concentration, so those users might prefer milder options or look for products that buffer it with soothing ingredients.
Because the raw materials are derived from coconut or palm kernel oil and the final compound contains no animal by-products, Dea-C12-13 Alketh-3 Sulfate is considered compatible with vegan and vegetarian lifestyles.
No specific warnings exist for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is used in rinse-off products like shampoo or body wash. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review any personal care item with a qualified healthcare provider to be safe.
The molecule does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it is not classified as a photosensitizer. It also plays well with most other common ingredients and does not interfere with sunscreen actives, exfoliating acids or retinoids in the brief contact typical of cleansers.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Dea-C12-13 Alketh-3 Sulfate differ from person to person. The points below outline potential but uncommon side effects when the ingredient is used at normal concentrations in properly formulated products.
- Transient skin dryness or tightness, especially on already dry or sensitive skin
- Mild stinging or redness if left on the skin for prolonged periods
- Eye irritation when shampoo or cleanser accidentally contacts the eyes
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis presenting as itching or small rash-like bumps
- Theoretical formation of trace nitrosamines if the finished product is not carefully preserved, though reputable manufacturers monitor this closely
If irritation or any other unwanted reaction occurs stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional for further guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Comedogenic rating: 0 / 5. Dea-C12-13 Alketh-3 Sulfate is a highly water-soluble surfactant that is designed to be rinsed away completely, so it does not linger on the skin or clog pores. Its molecular structure has no heavy oils or waxes that typically contribute to comedones, which is why it earns the lowest possible score.
Thanks to this rating the ingredient is generally fine for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
Because it is almost always used in wash-off products any brief contact it has with the skin is further reduced once you rinse, keeping pore-clogging risks minimal.
Summary
Dea-C12-13 Alketh-3 Sulfate is a coconut or palm-derived cleansing agent that lifts oils, makeup and everyday grime by lowering the surface tension of water and surrounding dirt so it can be washed away. Its balanced carbon chain creates a rich lather while the ethoxylation step tempers harshness, resulting in an effective yet reasonably mild cleanser.
You will spot it in many mainstream shampoos, body washes and facial cleansers, though newer sulfate-free trends mean formulators sometimes swap it for alternative surfactants. Still, its reliable foam and cost-effectiveness keep it in steady demand.
Used at typical levels in rinse-off products it has a solid safety record, with dryness or mild irritation being the most common but still uncommon complaints. As with any new skincare or haircare product it is wise to do a quick patch test before full use just to be safe.