What Is Di-C12-15 Pareth-2 Phosphate?
Di-C12-15 Pareth-2 Phosphate is a synthetic ingredient made by reacting medium chain fatty alcohols taken from coconut or palm oil with ethylene oxide, then linking the resulting molecules to phosphoric acid. The numbers in its name tell chemists that the fatty alcohols range from 12 to 15 carbon atoms and that, on average, two units of ethylene oxide have been added. The phosphate group at the end gives the final material a mild negative charge, helping it mix with both water and oil.
Non ionic and anionic surfactants like this began gaining popularity in the late 20th century when formulators looked for milder alternatives to traditional soaps. Because Di-C12-15 Pareth-2 Phosphate is gentle on skin and works in a wide pH range it soon showed up in shampoos, facial cleansers and light lotions. Production usually starts with the natural fatty alcohols, which are first purified, then ethoxylated under heat and pressure. The intermediate is then reacted with phosphoric acid and finally neutralized to form a salt that dissolves well in water.
Today you will most often find this ingredient in face washes, body washes, micellar waters, makeup removing wipes, lightweight moisturizers and even some sheet masks where a quick rinse or wipe away of oil and dirt is needed without stripping the skin.
Di-C12-15 Pareth-2 Phosphate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This versatile surfactant lends several helpful properties to modern formulas
- Cleansing: Lowers surface tension so water can lift away excess sebum, makeup and environmental grime, allowing a product to rinse clean without leaving skin tight
- Emulsifying: Helps keep oil and water phases mixed, giving creams and lotions a smooth stable texture that resists separation over time
Who Can Use Di-C12-15 Pareth-2 Phosphate
Thanks to its mild cleansing action and low likelihood of clogging pores, Di-C12-15 Pareth-2 Phosphate suits most skin types including oily, combination, normal and even sensitive skin. People with very dry or eczema-prone skin should keep an eye on how their skin feels, as any surfactant can contribute to a tight sensation if used too often or in high amounts.
The fatty alcohols used to make Di-C12-15 Pareth-2 Phosphate are plant-derived and no animal by-products are involved in the manufacturing process, so products containing it are typically appropriate for both vegans and vegetarians.
Current safety data show no specific concerns for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when this ingredient is used in wash-off or leave-on cosmetics. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should run any skincare product past a doctor just to be safe.
The molecule does not increase sensitivity to sunlight, so it is considered non-photosensitizing.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical use of Di-C12-15 Pareth-2 Phosphate vary from person to person. The points below describe potential reactions, though most users will not experience them when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness or a transient stinging sensation
- Dryness or tightness if used frequently on already dehydrated skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis in rare cases for individuals sensitive to phosphates or ethoxylated compounds
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
If any of these effects occur discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
Di-C12-15 Pareth-2 Phosphate is highly water soluble and designed to rinse off, so it spends very little time sitting on the skin or inside pores. While it is made from fatty alcohols, the ethoxylation and phosphate groups make the final molecule more hydrophilic which greatly lowers its chance of blocking follicles. For most acne prone users this ingredient is considered low risk, though the overall formula matters too and heavy oils or butters in the same product could change the outcome.
Summary
Di-C12-15 Pareth-2 Phosphate acts mainly as a cleanser and emulsifier. Its surfactant structure breaks the bond between oil and water letting dirt, makeup and excess sebum lift away while the phosphate head and fatty tail sit at the interface of oil droplets to keep lotions and creams from separating. You will spot it most often in everyday face washes, micellar waters and lightweight moisturizers where a gentle yet effective surfactant is needed. It is not a superstar name that gets advertised on the front label but formulators like it for its reliability, mildness and versatility.
Current research and decades of safe use show a very low risk of irritation or other health concerns when used as directed in cosmetics. As with any new skincare ingredient it is smart to try a small patch of product first to ensure personal compatibility.