What Is Trideceth-10 Phosphate?
Trideceth-10 Phosphate is a synthetic ingredient made by attaching a phosphate group to a chain of tridecyl alcohol that has been reacted with ethylene oxide. The result is a clear to slightly hazy liquid that mixes well with both water and oil. Chemists began exploring these kinds of molecules in the late 20th century when the growing demand for mild yet effective cleansers pushed the industry to create surfactants that would work at low concentrations without upsetting skin balance. Production starts with plant-derived or petroleum-based fatty alcohols, which are treated with ethylene oxide to build a series of small repeating units known as ethoxylates. A final reaction adds the phosphate group, giving the ingredient its special cleansing and stabilizing abilities.
You will most often spot Trideceth-10 Phosphate in facial cleansers, micellar waters, shampoo, liquid hand soap, body wash and makeup removers. It also shows up in some cream and lotion formulas where it helps oil and water stay mixed so the product keeps a smooth texture over its shelf life.
Trideceth-10 Phosphate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators rely on this versatile ingredient for several key reasons:
- Cleansing: Acts as a mild surfactant that lifts away dirt, excess oil and makeup without leaving a heavy residue, helping skin feel fresh and comfortable
- Emulsifying: Keeps oil and water phases blended so creams and lotions remain stable and uniform which means users get the same texture and performance from the first pump to the last
Who Can Use Trideceth-10 Phosphate
This ingredient is generally well tolerated by most skin types including oily, combination, normal and even sensitive skin because it is classified as a mild surfactant that works effectively at low levels. Those with very dry or easily dehydrated skin may prefer formulas where it is paired with richer moisturisers to offset any potential feeling of tightness after cleansing.
Trideceth-10 Phosphate is made from synthetic or plant derived raw materials and contains no animal by-products, making it suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Always verify overall product claims if cruelty free status is important to you.
No data suggest a specific risk for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is used topically and rinsed off. Absorption through intact skin is minimal yet this is not medical advice so anyone who is pregnant or nursing should confirm product choices with a qualified healthcare provider.
The molecule does not increase skin’s sensitivity to sunlight so it is not considered photosensitising. It is also compatible with most other common skincare ingredients, allowing it to slot into routines without special precautions.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Trideceth-10 Phosphate differ from person to person. The following outlines potential side effects but most users will not experience them when the ingredient is used at the levels typically found in cosmetic formulas.
- Skin irritation such as redness stinging or itching, especially on very sensitive or compromised skin
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Temporary dryness or a tight feeling with frequent use in people who already have dry skin
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis for individuals specifically sensitised to phosphate or ethoxylate compounds
If any of these effects occur stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional or pharmacist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0–1. Trideceth-10 Phosphate is highly water soluble, used at low concentrations and typically rinsed off, which means it does not sit inside pores or leave an occlusive film that might trap oil and debris. Most industry sources list ethoxylated surfactants like this one as non-comedogenic or very low on the scale, so it is considered safe for skin that breaks out easily. Its quick rinsibility and lack of heavy fatty acids further reduce the chance of clogging. As a result, people who are prone to acne can usually use products containing this ingredient without added concern. For leave-on formulas the risk is still minimal yet not entirely zero, hence the slight range in the rating.
Summary
Trideceth-10 Phosphate serves mainly as a mild cleanser and emulsifier. Its phosphate-tipped ethoxylated chain lowers the surface tension between oil, water and dirt, allowing grime to lift away while helping oil and water stay evenly mixed inside a formula. This dual action keeps cleansers effective and creams uniformly smooth.
It is not a headline ingredient like hyaluronic acid or vitamin C, yet it quietly powers many everyday face washes, micellar waters and shampoos thanks to its balance of gentleness and performance. Safety reviews place it in the low-risk category with only rare reports of irritation, making it a dependable choice across skin types. Still, whenever you bring a new product into your routine, do a quick patch test so you can be sure your skin agrees with the full recipe, not just this single component.