What Is Ppg-5 C12-14 Sec-Alketh-9?
Ppg-5 C12-14 Sec-Alketh-9 is a synthetic ingredient made by attaching units of propylene glycol and ethylene glycol to a blend of C12-C14 secondary alcohols. On average five propylene oxide units and nine ethylene oxide units are linked to each alcohol molecule, creating a water-loving yet oil-compatible structure that works well in skin care formulas. The alcohol base is produced in the lab from petroleum-derived feedstocks so the final material is fully man-made and consistent from batch to batch.
Surfactant chemists started combining propylene and ethylene oxides with fatty alcohols in the late 1960s to solve the challenge of keeping oil and water mixed in lotions. Over time, specific ratios were optimized for different product textures. The version now called Ppg-5 C12-14 Sec-Alketh-9 was once listed as Ppg-5 C12-14 Sec-Pareth-9 but the industry updated the naming rules to reflect its alkyl ether structure.
The manufacturing process begins with secondary alcohols that have 12 to 14 carbon atoms. These are reacted in a controlled environment with propylene oxide, then ethylene oxide, using alkaline catalysts and heat. The result is a clear to pale yellow liquid that can be pumped straight into cosmetic mixing tanks.
Because it can disperse both oily and watery ingredients, you will often find Ppg-5 C12-14 Sec-Alketh-9 in facial moisturizers, lightweight lotions, sunscreens, wash-off masks, hair conditioners, sprayable serums and anti-aging emulsions that need a smooth, stable finish.
Ppg-5 C12-14 Sec-Alketh-9’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators rely on this ingredient for two key technical roles that directly affect how a product feels and performs on your skin or hair.
- Emulsion stabilising: Once water and oils are blended, tiny droplets can merge over time leading to separation. Ppg-5 C12-14 Sec-Alketh-9 positions itself at the droplet surface forming a flexible barrier that keeps the emulsion uniform during storage and everyday use which means a longer shelf life and a consistent texture from the first pump to the last.
- Emulsifying: During production it acts as the main agent that pulls water and oil phases together, allowing creams and lotions to form quickly without high levels of waxes or thickeners. This lets brands create lightweight formulas that absorb easily and leave less residue on the skin.
This ingredient works well for most skin types because it stays on the surface to organise oil and water rather than soaking deeply into pores. Oily and combination skin appreciate its lightweight feel while dry skin benefits from the smooth finish it gives to creamy formulas. Even sensitive skin generally tolerates it since it is nonionic and carries no charge that could irritate, though people with a known sensitivity to synthetic surfactants should approach it with caution.
PPG-5 C12-14 Sec-Alketh-9 is produced entirely from petroleum-derived feedstocks and laboratory reagents, without animal by-products or testing mandated by the ingredient itself, so it is considered suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
No specific warnings exist for pregnant or breastfeeding women beyond the usual guidance to keep routines simple and check every product with a healthcare professional. This information is educational only and not medical advice so expectant or nursing mothers should run any skincare product past a doctor to be safe.
The molecule does not absorb UV light and has not been linked to increased photosensitivity or sun-related reactions, meaning daytime use does not raise extra sun protection demands.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Ppg-5 C12-14 Sec-Alketh-9 depend on individual skin sensitivity and the overall formula. The effects below are possible yet uncommon when products are manufactured and used as intended.
- Mild skin irritation – redness or stinging can occur on very reactive skin, especially if the formula also contains high levels of fragrance or alcohol
- Contact dermatitis – rare allergic contact dermatitis has been reported with polyether surfactants in general, presenting as itching or a rash
- Eye irritation – if a product accidentally gets into the eyes it can cause temporary watering or discomfort until rinsed out
- Increased penetration of other actives – by improving wetting it can allow stronger actives in the same product to reach deeper layers, which might heighten their own side effects
If any burning, swelling or persistent redness appears stop using the product and consult a medical professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5. Ppg-5 C12-14 Sec-Alketh-9 is a lightweight nonionic surfactant that mainly sits at the oil-water interface rather than coating skin with a thick film, so it has little tendency to clog pores. It is also fully liquid and rinses away easily in cleansers or spreads thinly in leave-on lotions, leaving minimal residue. Because of this low buildup potential it is generally suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin. Only in very heavy, poorly formulated creams could it contribute to congestion, and even then it would be a minor player compared with fatty oils or waxes.
Summary
Ppg-5 C12-14 Sec-Alketh-9 is primarily an emulsifier and emulsion stabiliser, meaning it pulls water and oil together during manufacturing then keeps those droplets from separating over time. It does this thanks to its unique structure: a fatty alcohol tail that loves oil plus a chain of propylene and ethylene oxide units that love water. This dual affinity lets it line up at the droplet surface creating smooth, uniform creams and lotions without heavy waxes.
While not a headline ingredient it appears in a steady stream of moisturisers, sunscreens, spray serums and hair conditioners because it offers reliable performance and a light skin feel at low cost. Its popularity is moderate rather than superstar, but formulators reach for it when they need an easy-to-handle liquid emulsifier that plays well with many actives.
Current safety data shows low irritation and very low comedogenicity at typical use levels, so most people can enjoy products containing it with confidence. As with any new cosmetic though it is wise to patch test a small area first to confirm personal tolerance.