What Is Disodium C12-14 Pareth-1 Sulfosuccinate?
Disodium C12-14 Pareth-1 Sulfosuccinate is a mild surfactant made from fatty alcohols that come mainly from coconut or palm oil. Chemically, it belongs to the sulfosuccinate family and carries an average of one ethylene oxide unit, which helps it mix oil and water. This ingredient was first explored in the 1960s when formulators searched for gentler options than traditional sulfates. Over time it earned a place in personal care products because it delivers effective cleansing without the harsh feel often linked to stronger detergents.
The manufacturing process begins with plant-derived C12-C14 fatty alcohols that react with ethylene oxide to create a Pareth-1 molecule. This is then linked to a sulfosuccinate group and neutralized with sodium to form the final disodium salt. The result is a water-soluble powder or paste that easily blends into formulas.
You will mostly find Disodium C12-14 Pareth-1 Sulfosuccinate in facial cleansers, body washes, shampoos, bubble baths, micellar waters and some gentle baby products. It can also appear in exfoliating scrubs or makeup removers where soft yet effective cleaning is needed.
Disodium C12-14 Pareth-1 Sulfosuccinate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient plays a single but important role in cosmetics.
Cleansing: It lowers surface tension so water can spread and lift away dirt, excess oil and product buildup. Because it is milder than many sulfate surfactants it leaves skin and hair feeling clean yet comfortable which helps reduce dryness or tightness after washing.
Who Can Use Disodium C12-14 Pareth-1 Sulfosuccinate
This cleanser is gentle enough for most skin types including dry, oily, combination and normal. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it well because it has a mild action that does not strip the natural barrier. Those with very reactive or damaged skin should still watch how their skin feels since even mild surfactants can cause tightness if left on too long or used in high amounts.
The ingredient is made from plant-derived fatty alcohols and does not rely on animal sources so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. It is also cruelty-free when sourced from suppliers that do not test on animals.
Current data shows no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when this ingredient is used in rinse-off products. Because every pregnancy is different this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should double-check any skincare product with a healthcare professional.
Disodium C12-14 Pareth-1 Sulfosuccinate does not make skin more sensitive to the sun and there are no known issues with light exposure. It is also fragrance-free and unlikely to clash with actives like retinol or vitamin C used in the same routine.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Disodium C12-14 Pareth-1 Sulfosuccinate vary from person to person. The points below cover potential side effects but most users will never notice them when the ingredient is used at normal levels in well-made products.
- Mild dryness or tightness
- Temporary redness in very sensitive skin
- Itching or slight stinging if the formula is left on too long
- Eye irritation if the cleanser accidentally gets into the eyes
If any discomfort shows up stop using the product and speak with a healthcare professional if symptoms persist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 (non-comedogenic)
Disodium C12-14 Pareth-1 Sulfosuccinate is a highly water-soluble surfactant that rinses off quickly without leaving an oily film on skin. It does not contain fatty acids or heavy emollients that typically clog pores, so it earns the lowest possible comedogenic score.
Because it does not block pores it is generally suitable for people prone to acne or breakouts.
Most formulas using this ingredient are rinse-off cleansers, which further reduces any residue that could contribute to congestion.
Summary
Disodium C12-14 Pareth-1 Sulfosuccinate is mainly valued for its gentle cleansing ability. Its amphiphilic structure lowers surface tension so water can lift away dirt, oil and buildup while its mild sulfosuccinate backbone keeps skin and hair comfortable.
The ingredient shows up in many modern face washes, body washes and shampoos, especially those marketed as sulfate-free. It is not as famous as classic sulfates but formulators appreciate its mildness so you will often spot it in products targeting sensitive users.
Current safety data rate it as low-risk when used in typical rinse-off amounts. Still, every skin is different so it is smart to patch test any new product containing this surfactant before adding it to your regular routine.