What Is Potassium Trideceth-15 Carboxylate?
Potassium Trideceth-15 Carboxylate is the potassium salt of a fatty acid derived from a synthetic alcohol chain that contains 13 carbon atoms. In simple terms it is a soap-like ingredient created by reacting trideceth-15, an ethoxylated alcohol, with a carboxylic acid then neutralizing the resulting acid with potassium hydroxide. This process turns the raw material into a water-soluble powder or liquid that blends easily into cosmetic formulas.
The use of fatty acid salts as cleansers dates back many decades when manufacturers first looked for alternatives to traditional bar soap that could work in milder liquid products. As chemists refined ethoxylation techniques in the late 20th century they produced trideceth-based molecules that delivered gentle yet effective cleansing. Adding a carboxylate group and potassium made the ingredient even more water friendly which opened the door for its inclusion in modern rinse-off products.
Today Potassium Trideceth-15 Carboxylate is most often found in facial cleansers, micellar waters, body washes, liquid hand soaps, bubble baths and some makeup removing lotions where formulators want a mild surfactant that creates a soft creamy lather and rinses without a tight after-feel.
Potassium Trideceth-15 Carboxylate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
When added to a formula this ingredient serves one main purpose that greatly influences how the product performs on skin.
Cleansing: As a surfactant it lowers the surface tension of water so oils, dirt and makeup can be lifted from the skin and washed away. It produces a gentle foam, works in both hard and soft water, and leaves minimal residue which helps formulas feel fresh and non-stripping.
Who Can Use Potassium Trideceth-15 Carboxylate
This mild cleansing agent is generally suitable for normal, oily, combination and even sensitive skin thanks to its gentle foam and low residue. Very dry or compromised skin may still prefer formulas buffered with extra moisturizers because any surfactant can contribute to moisture loss when used frequently.
The ingredient is produced synthetically from petrochemical or plant based raw materials and contains no animal derived components so it is considered acceptable for both vegetarians and vegans.
No data suggest specific risks for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the ingredient is used topically in rinse off products. That said this is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should review all skincare with their physician to be certain it fits their individual situation.
Potassium Trideceth-15 Carboxylate is not known to cause photosensitivity so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It is also fragrance free and non volatile which helps keep it low on the list of common irritants.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects and reactions to topical Potassium Trideceth-15 Carboxylate can vary from person to person. The following is a list of potential issues yet they are uncommon when the ingredient is used at standard levels by reputable manufacturers.
- Temporary skin dryness or tightness, especially with overuse or when used in very hard water
- Mild irritation or stinging on already compromised or highly sensitive skin
- Eye irritation and tearing if the cleanser accidentally gets into the eyes
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis marked by redness itching or small bumps
If any of these effects occur stop using the product and seek guidance from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 This water-soluble surfactant rinses away completely and leaves no oily residue so it does not clog pores.
Its structure is optimized to lift sebum rather than sit on skin which keeps buildup from forming inside follicles. Because it is almost always used in rinse-off products contact time is short further reducing any congestion risk. Acne-prone users generally tolerate it well.
Summary
Potassium Trideceth-15 Carboxylate is a gentle surfactant that lets water break through oils so dirt sunscreen and makeup wash away easily. It creates a soft foam, works in any water hardness and leaves skin feeling clean not tight which explains its steady presence in many facial cleansers hand soaps and body washes.
Though not a headline ingredient it enjoys quiet popularity among formulators thanks to its reliability and mildness.
Research and decades of use show it is low risk for irritation or allergy when formulated correctly. Patch test any new product containing it to make sure it suits your unique skin.