What Is Sodium C12-15 Alketh-7 Sulfonate?
Sodium C12-15 Alketh-7 Sulfonate is a man-made cleansing agent crafted from mid-length synthetic fatty alcohols that contain 12 to 15 carbon atoms. These alcohols are first reacted with ethylene oxide to add about seven “-oxyethylene” units, then treated with sulfur trioxide and neutralized with sodium to form the final sulfonate salt. The result is a water-soluble powder or clear liquid that lathers easily and cuts through oils on skin and hair.
The surfactant family it belongs to took off in the mid 20th century when soap makers searched for alternatives that worked well in hard water and could be produced at large scale. As ethoxylation and sulfonation techniques improved, versions like Sodium C12-15 Alketh-7 Sulfonate became staples in gentle, rinse-off formulas.
Today you will most often find it in face cleansers, body washes, shampoos, exfoliating scrubs and makeup-removing wipes. It is also blended into bubble baths, shaving creams and some clay or gel masks where quick foaming action is needed.
Sodium C12-15 Alketh-7 Sulfonate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient is valued for one main role in beauty formulas
Cleansing: As a surfactant it lowers the surface tension of water so oils, dirt and leftover makeup lift away with ease. It creates a rich but mild foam that spreads the product evenly, rinses clean without a heavy film and helps leave skin or hair feeling fresh and smooth.
Who Can Use Sodium C12-15 Alketh-7 Sulfonate
Products with Sodium C12-15 Alketh-7 Sulfonate tend to work well for normal, oily or combination skin because the surfactant removes excess sebum without leaving a heavy residue. People with very dry, eczema-prone or highly sensitive skin might notice tightness if the overall formula lacks enough conditioning agents, so it is best for them to choose cleansers that pair this ingredient with soothing oils or humectants.
The compound is synthesized from fatty alcohols and petrochemical feedstocks, not animals, so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Always check the full ingredient list though, since other ingredients in the same product might not be animal-free.
No specific warnings exist for pregnant or breastfeeding users. Current safety assessments show no reproductive or developmental risks at the levels used in rinse-off cosmetics. This is general information only; anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review their skincare routine with a qualified medical professional.
The ingredient is not known to cause photosensitivity and it does not interfere with sunscreen performance. Because most formulas are washed off within seconds, skin exposure remains low, further reducing the chance of issues.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Sodium C12-15 Alketh-7 Sulfonate differ from person to person. The points below list potential effects that could occur, yet most users will not experience them when the ingredient is used correctly in a well-balanced product.
- Dryness or a tight feeling, especially on very dry or compromised skin
- Mild redness or stinging if the skin barrier is already irritated
- Eye discomfort if the cleanser accidentally gets into the eyes
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis marked by itching and small bumps
- Faster fading of vivid hair dye shades when used in shampoos for color-treated hair
If any unwanted reaction develops stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 (low)
Sodium C12-15 Alketh-7 Sulfonate is highly water soluble and does not leave an oily film on the skin so it is very unlikely to clog pores. Most of it is washed away during rinsing which limits the time it stays in contact with follicles. Because of these factors the ingredient earns a low comedogenic score of 1.
That means it is generally fine for people who are prone to acne or breakouts, provided the rest of the formula is also non-comedogenic.
Keep in mind that some leave-on products could contain the surfactant for its solubilizing abilities. In those rare cases the overall recipe, not this ingredient alone, will decide whether pores stay clear.
Summary
Sodium C12-15 Alketh-7 Sulfonate is first and foremost a cleansing surfactant. By lowering water’s surface tension it helps loosen oil, dirt and makeup, whips up a gentle lather and then rinses away clean so skin and hair feel fresh.
It is a reliable workhorse in many everyday cleansers, shampoos and wipes. While not as famous as sulfate surfactants like SLS, formulators reach for it when they want effective foaming with a milder touch.
Safety reviews show a low risk profile in rinse-off applications and irritation is uncommon when formulas balance it with soothing ingredients. Still, skin is personal so it is smart to patch test any new product that features this ingredient to make sure it agrees with you.