What Is Disodium C12-14 Sec-Pareth-12 Sulfosuccinate?
Disodium C12-14 Sec-Pareth-12 Sulfosuccinate is a synthetic ingredient created by taking medium-chain secondary alcohols derived from petroleum or plant oils, attaching about twelve ethylene oxide units to give them water-loving ends, partially esterifying the result with sulfosuccinic acid then neutralizing the mixture with sodium. The outcome is a mild, water-soluble powder or paste that behaves as an anionic surfactant.
The compound first gained attention in the late 1970s when formulators looked for alternatives to harsher sulfates. Its dual character—one part attracted to oil, the other to water—made it valuable for gentle yet effective cleansing. Over the decades it has become a staple in sulfate-free or low-sulfate products aimed at sensitive skin.
You will most often find it in facial cleansers, body washes, bubble baths, shampoos, micellar waters, baby wipes and makeup-removing pads. It can also appear in cream or gel masks and in some leave-on lotions where a light cleansing or dispersion aid is needed.
Disodium C12-14 Sec-Pareth-12 Sulfosuccinate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators rely on this ingredient for several practical reasons
- Cleansing – its surfactant nature lifts away dirt, oil and makeup while remaining gentle on skin and hair
- Skin conditioning – the molecule leaves behind a light, conditioned feel that helps skin stay soft and reduces the tight sensation sometimes caused by washing
- Foam boosting – it stabilizes and increases lather so products feel rich and rinse cleanly without a squeaky feel
- Hydrotrope – it improves the way other ingredients dissolve in water, keeping formulas clear and preventing separation
Who Can Use Disodium C12-14 Sec-Pareth-12 Sulfosuccinate
This ingredient is generally well tolerated by most skin types. Its mild nature makes it a good fit for dry, normal, oily and combination skin. People with very sensitive or compromised skin usually do fine with it, although anyone who reacts easily to surfactants may want to proceed with extra care because any cleanser can potentially disturb an already fragile barrier.
Disodium C12-14 Sec-Pareth-12 Sulfosuccinate is synthetically produced and contains no animal-derived materials, so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
Current safety data show no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is used as directed in rinse-off or leave-on products. This is not medical advice, and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review all personal care products with their healthcare provider just to be safe.
The ingredient does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it is not classed as photosensitising. Standard daily sun protection is still encouraged for overall skin health.
It is also safe for use on color-treated hair because it is less stripping than strong sulfates, though final performance will depend on the full formula.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical use of Disodium C12-14 Sec-Pareth-12 Sulfosuccinate vary from person to person. The points below outline potential reactions but most users will not experience them when the ingredient is used correctly in a well-formulated product.
- Mild skin irritation, such as redness or stinging, especially on very sensitive or broken skin
- Eye stinging if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Dryness or tightness if used in a formula that is too strong or if cleansing is excessive
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis resulting in itching or small rash
If any unwanted reaction occurs, stop using the product and seek medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5
Disodium C12-14 Sec-Pareth-12 Sulfosuccinate is a highly water soluble surfactant that rinses away cleanly without leaving an oily or waxy residue that could block pores. It is used at low to moderate levels and is not known to linger on skin, both factors that further reduce the chance of clogging. Because it has no fatty acid chains in free form and does not form an occlusive film, the risk of comedone formation is considered negligible.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
In leave-on products the concentration is usually very low, and even then the molecule stays dispersed in water, so its non-comedogenic nature holds true across product types.
Summary
Disodium C12-14 Sec-Pareth-12 Sulfosuccinate works as a mild cleanser, foam booster, hydrotrope and light skin conditioner. Its surfactant head binds to water while its tail grabs onto oils, allowing it to lift away impurities and rinse them off effortlessly. By stabilising bubbles it gives washes and shampoos a fuller lather, and as a hydrotrope it helps keep other ingredients dissolved so formulas stay clear and uniform.
It is moderately popular, especially in sulfate-free cleansers aimed at sensitive skin and baby care, but it is not as common as mainstream sulfates or newer bio-based surfactants.
Current safety data and decades of cosmetic use show it to be low risk for irritation or toxicity when used as directed. As with any new product though, a quick patch test is wise to confirm personal compatibility.