What Is Disodium C12-14 Sec-Alketh-7 Sulfosuccinate?
Disodium C12-14 Sec-Alketh-7 Sulfosuccinate is a synthetic ingredient made by reacting medium-chain fatty alcohols derived from petroleum or coconut oil with about seven units of ethylene oxide, then partially esterifying the result with sulfosuccinic acid and neutralizing it with sodium. The outcome is a water-soluble salt that behaves a lot like a gentler form of sulfates.
The compound first appeared in personal care formulas in the 1970s when chemists searched for milder cleansers that still created satisfying foam. Its balanced structure lets it clean oil and dirt without stripping skin or hair, so manufacturers soon adopted it as an alternative to harsher surfactants such as sodium lauryl sulfate.
Production begins with secondary alcohols in the C12-C14 carbon range. These alcohols are ethoxylated to add water-loving groups, reacted with sulfosuccinic anhydride to introduce the sulfosuccinate link, then neutralized to form the disodium salt. Strict process controls keep by-products low and ensure the final powder or liquid meets cosmetic purity standards.
You will commonly find Disodium C12-14 Sec-Alketh-7 Sulfosuccinate in facial cleansers, shampoos, body washes, bubble baths, baby cleansers, exfoliating scrubs and shaving foams. Some makeup removers and micellar waters also rely on it for its mild yet effective cleansing action.
Disodium C12-14 Sec-Alketh-7 Sulfosuccinate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This versatile surfactant contributes several useful roles in a formula
- Cleansing: Lifts away sweat, sebum and product buildup while remaining less irritating than many traditional sulfates, making it suitable for sensitive skin and daily-use products
- Foam boosting: Enhances the quantity and stability of lather, giving shampoos and washes the rich, cushiony foam consumers expect which helps spread the product evenly and rinse away impurities efficiently
- Hydrotrope: Improves the solubility of oils and fragrance in water-based systems allowing formulators to keep clear, uniform solutions without cloudiness or separation
Who Can Use Disodium C12-14 Sec-Alketh-7 Sulfosuccinate
This mild surfactant is generally well tolerated by all skin types including oily, combination and sensitive. Its lower irritation potential compared with classic sulfates makes it a popular choice for children and adults alike. Very dry or eczema-prone skin may still prefer shorter contact times or a follow-up moisturizer since any cleanser can remove some protective oils.
The ingredient is synthesized from petroleum or coconut-derived alcohols and contains no animal by-products so it suits both vegetarians and vegans.
Current safety assessments show no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is used in rinse-off or leave-on cosmetics. Still, this is not medical advice; anyone who is expecting or nursing should run all personal care products past a qualified healthcare provider to be on the safe side.
Disodium C12-14 Sec-Alketh-7 Sulfosuccinate does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and has no known interactions with common photosensitizing medications.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Disodium C12-14 Sec-Alketh-7 Sulfosuccinate vary from person to person. The following are potential side effects only and are unlikely to occur for most users when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed
- Mild skin irritation: transient redness or itching, typically linked to high concentrations or prolonged contact
- Eye stinging: possible when foaming cleansers enter the eyes although the effect is brief and resolves with rinsing
- Dryness or tightness: may appear on very dry or compromised skin if the product is not followed by moisturizer
- Allergic contact dermatitis: rare sensitization leading to rash or swelling
- Color fade in dyed hair: repeated use can gradually accelerate dye washout especially with vibrant semi-permanent shades
If you experience any adverse reaction discontinue use and seek guidance from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
Disodium C12-14 Sec-Alketh-7 Sulfosuccinate is highly water soluble and rinses away cleanly so it is unlikely to build up in pores or mix with skin oil in a way that could trigger blockages. Most research and anecdotal reports do not link it to clogged pores which is why it earns a low score of 1.
Because of this low rating it is generally considered suitable for people prone to acne or breakouts. Its use in rinse-off formats like cleansers and shampoos further reduces any comedogenic risk.
Very sensitive or compromised skin might still react to foaming agents in general, but pore clogging is not a common concern with this particular surfactant.
Summary
Disodium C12-14 Sec-Alketh-7 Sulfosuccinate acts as a cleanser, foam booster and hydrotrope. Its dual oil-loving and water-loving structure grabs onto dirt and excess sebum then lifts them into the rinse water while creating a creamy lather that feels satisfying and spreads the product evenly. As a hydrotrope it keeps oils and fragrances dissolved so the final formula stays clear and stable.
You will see it in a fair share of modern shampoos, face washes, body washes and even baby cleansers because brands want an alternative to harsher sulfates yet still need lots of foam. It is not the most talked-about ingredient on social media but formulators value it for its mildness and reliability.
Current safety assessments rate it as low risk when used as directed with irritation or allergy remaining uncommon. Still, everyone’s skin is unique so it is smart to patch test any new product that contains this surfactant before adding it to your daily routine.