What Is Trideceth-6?
Trideceth-6 is a synthetic ingredient made by attaching about six units of ethylene oxide to isotridecanol, a fatty alcohol that can be derived from petroleum or plant oils. The result is a clear to slightly hazy liquid that mixes well with both water and oil.
Chemists began adding ethoxylated fatty alcohols like Trideceth-6 to cosmetics in the late 1960s when the beauty industry was searching for gentler ways to blend oil and water in lotions and cleansers. Over time its reliability, mild feel and ability to rinse clean made it a go-to helper ingredient for many formulas.
The manufacturing process starts with isotridecanol, which reacts with ethylene oxide under controlled heat and pressure. By stopping the reaction after roughly six ethylene oxide units have attached, producers get the specific version labeled Trideceth-6.
You are most likely to see Trideceth-6 in facial cleansers, micellar waters, makeup removers, exfoliating masks, lightweight moisturizers, hair conditioners and some styling creams where a light, non-greasy feel is important.
Trideceth-6’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient brings a couple of key technical benefits to a formula
- Cleansing – Helps loosen and lift dirt, oil and makeup so they can be rinsed away without harsh rubbing
- Emulsifying – Keeps water and oil evenly mixed which prevents a product from separating, improves texture and ensures each use delivers the same level of active ingredients
Who Can Use Trideceth-6
Most skin types tolerate Trideceth-6 well, including normal, oily, combination and dry skin. Its mild cleansing action makes it gentle enough for sensitive skin, though people with a known sensitivity to ethoxylated alcohols should proceed with caution.
The ingredient is synthetically produced and can be sourced from petroleum or plant oils, neither of which involves animal byproducts. For this reason Trideceth-6 is generally considered suitable for vegans and vegetarians, yet strict users may wish to confirm the exact sourcing with the brand.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women are not known to face any special risk from topical use of Trideceth-6. There is no evidence that it penetrates deeply or disrupts hormones. This is not medical advice; anyone who is pregnant or nursing should discuss new skincare products with a qualified doctor just to be safe.
Trideceth-6 does not increase photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It is also fragrance free and non volatile, making it unlikely to trigger headaches or respiratory discomfort.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Trideceth-6 differ from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects, but most users will not experience them when the ingredient is used correctly in a well formulated product.
- Mild skin irritation – tingling, stinging or a tight feeling that usually subsides after rinsing
- Redness – temporary flushing, especially on very sensitive or compromised skin
- Dryness – overuse or pairing with other strong surfactants can strip natural oils leaving skin or hair feeling parched
- Allergic contact dermatitis – rare itchy rash in individuals allergic to ethoxylated fatty alcohols
- Eye irritation – burning or watering if the ingredient accidentally gets into the eyes
If any of these effects occur discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5. Trideceth-6 is a small, water-soluble surfactant that rinses off easily and does not leave an oily film that could clog pores. It lacks the heavy, waxy structure typical of highly comedogenic fatty ingredients, which is why the likelihood of it blocking pores is considered very low.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin in most cases.
Because formulations differ, the overall pore-clogging potential of a finished product will also depend on the other ingredients and how long the product stays on skin.
Summary
Trideceth-6 works as a cleanser and emulsifier, lifting away dirt and oil while keeping water and oil phases blended so creams and cleansers stay smooth and stable. Its light texture helps formulas feel non-greasy and rinse clean.
It is a fairly common helper ingredient, especially in facial cleansers, micellar waters and lightweight conditioners, though it is not as famous as big-name actives like hyaluronic acid.
Safety data and decades of use show Trideceth-6 is generally gentle with a low risk of irritation or pore clogging when used at typical cosmetic levels. As with any new skincare ingredient, it is wise to patch test a product before full use to make sure your skin agrees with it.