What Is Ammonium C6-16 Perfluoroalkylethyl Phosphate?
Ammonium C6-16 Perfluoroalkylethyl Phosphate is a man-made ingredient created by reacting phosphoric acid with fluorinated alcohols, then neutralizing the mixture with ammonia. The result is an ammonium salt that looks like a clear to slightly cloudy liquid and mixes well with water and oils. Because the carbon chain lengths range from six to sixteen atoms it offers a balance of light feel and staying power on skin.
Fluorinated compounds first grabbed attention in the mid-20th century for their water- and oil-resistant talents. Over time chemists adapted these traits for beauty products, leading to the development of ingredients such as Ammonium C6-16 Perfluoroalkylethyl Phosphate. Its introduction allowed formulators to create smoother longer-lasting products without heavy waxes or silicones.
Production starts with perfluoroalkyl alcohols made through a controlled fluorination process. These alcohols react with phosphoric acid to form phosphate esters. A final step adds ammonia which turns the mixture into an easily handled ammonium salt. Strict quality controls keep unwanted by-products to a minimum.
You’ll most often find this ingredient in primers, long-wear foundations, liquid lip colors, sunscreens, moisturizers that promise a silky finish, sheet masks and some lightweight hair styling sprays. Brands choose it when they want a product that feels thin yet resists smudging or rinsing away.
Ammonium C6-16 Perfluoroalkylethyl Phosphate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Its role in cosmetics is straightforward yet valuable.
As an emulsifying agent it helps water and oil blend into a stable mix. This keeps creams and lotions from separating, gives makeup an even texture and helps sunscreens spread smoothly so the protection is consistent.
Who Can Use Ammonium C6-16 Perfluoroalkylethyl Phosphate
This emulsifier sits light on the skin and does not clog pores, so it is generally suitable for oily, combination, normal and even dry skin looking for a weightless finish. Sensitive skin can usually tolerate it because it is chemically stable and non reactive, though anyone with a known allergy to fluorinated compounds should avoid it.
The ingredient is synthetic and contains no animal derived materials, making it appropriate for vegans and vegetarians.
Current safety data does not flag any specific concerns for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the ingredient is used topically in cosmetics. This is not medical advice and those who are pregnant or nursing should show the full product label to a qualified healthcare professional before adding it to their routine.
Ammonium C6-16 Perfluoroalkylethyl Phosphate does not increase photosensitivity so there is no special sun-related precaution beyond normal daily SPF use.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to any cosmetic ingredient vary person to person. The following points list potential side effects that could occur, but most users will not experience them when the product is well formulated.
- Mild skin irritation such as temporary redness or itching in very sensitive individuals
- Contact dermatitis in people allergic to fluorinated compounds or phosphates
- Eye irritation if a product containing the ingredient accidentally gets into the eyes
- Rare allergic reaction presenting as hives or swelling
If any of these effects occur stop using the product and seek medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Ammonium C6-16 Perfluoroalkylethyl Phosphate has a very low tendency to block pores because it is used at small percentages, sits on the skin as a lightweight film and is not oily or waxy. Its fluorinated backbone repels both water and sebum, so it does not mingle with the skin’s natural oils in a way that would create plug-forming mixtures.
This makes the ingredient generally suitable for people prone to acne or breakouts.
Formulas that pair it with heavy oils or butters could shift the overall pore-clogging potential, so consider the full ingredient list rather than focusing only on this single component.
Summary
Ammonium C6-16 Perfluoroalkylethyl Phosphate is an emulsifier that helps water and oil mix, stabilises creams and lotions, improves spreadability and adds a smooth lightweight feel that resists smudging and rinsing. It does this by forming a thin fluorinated film at the interface of water and oil droplets, locking the two phases together while also giving the finished product a silky glide.
Its use is still fairly niche, appearing mostly in long-wear makeup and some modern sunscreens rather than everyday moisturisers, yet formulators appreciate its ability to deliver a weightless durable finish without silicones.
Current data shows it to be safe for topical use with low irritation risk. As with any new cosmetic, do a quick patch test when trying a product that contains it to make sure your skin agrees.