What Is C10-16 Alketh-2?
C10-16 Alketh-2 is a synthetic cleansing agent made by reacting a blend of fatty alcohols that have 10 to 16 carbon atoms with an average of two units of ethylene oxide. The starting fatty alcohols can come from either plant oils or petroleum-derived feedstocks, and the controlled reaction with ethylene oxide creates a water-loving “head” on an oil-loving “tail.” This dual nature lets the ingredient lift oil and dirt from skin or hair while staying soluble in water.
Ethoxylated fatty alcohols first appeared in personal care products in the mid-20th century as formulators looked for milder options than soap. Over time, naming rules changed and what was once called C10-16 Pareth-2 is now listed as C10-16 Alketh-2 on ingredient labels.
The manufacturing process involves purifying the fatty alcohol mixture, then adding ethylene oxide gas in a pressurised reactor with a catalyst. After neutralisation and filtration the liquid surfactant is ready for use.
You are most likely to see C10-16 Alketh-2 in face cleansers, body washes, shampoos, micellar waters, exfoliating scrubs, peel-off masks and makeup removers. It may also appear in wipes or any rinse-off product that needs gentle yet effective cleansing power.
C10-16 Alketh-2’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In cosmetics this ingredient is valued for one primary role:
As a cleanser C10-16 Alketh-2 helps water mix with oils and debris so they rinse away easily. This improves the ability of washes and shampoos to leave skin or hair feeling clean without a heavy residue and supports a pleasant lather that consumers expect from modern cleansing products.
Who Can Use C10-16 Alketh-2
This cleansing agent suits most skin types including oily, normal, combination and even many dry skins because it rinses away without leaving a residue. Those with very sensitive or compromised skin such as eczema may want to limit use if they notice tightness or stinging, since any surfactant can disturb an already fragile barrier.
C10-16 Alketh-2 is produced from synthetic or plant-derived fatty alcohols and ethylene oxide, with no animal-derived material, so it is generally acceptable to vegans and vegetarians. Anyone following a strict lifestyle should still check with the specific brand to confirm the source of the starting alcohols and that no animal testing was involved.
No data suggest special risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when this ingredient is used in rinse-off products at typical levels. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should review all personal care products with a healthcare provider just to be safe.
The ingredient does not increase photosensitivity and will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It is also fragrance-free and non-volatile so it will not trigger sun-related reactions.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to the topical use of C10-16 Alketh-2 vary from person to person. The side effects listed below are only potential outcomes and are unlikely for most users when the ingredient is formulated correctly.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness or stinging, especially on very sensitive skin
- Dryness or tight feeling if used in high concentrations or without follow-up moisturiser
- Eye irritation if the formula accidentally gets into the eyes
- Contact dermatitis in individuals with a specific allergy to ethoxylated alcohols
If you experience any of these effects discontinue use and seek guidance from a medical professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
C10-16 Alketh-2 is a water-soluble cleansing agent that rinses off fully, so it does not sit on skin long enough to clog pores. It also lacks the heavy, greasy feel linked with higher comedogenic scores. A tiny chance of pore blockage remains because any surfactant can leave trace residues if not rinsed well, which is why the rating is not a perfect zero.
Overall this ingredient is considered suitable for acne-prone skin when used in rinse-off formulas.
If a product contains a blend of oils, butters or waxes alongside C10-16 Alketh-2, the comedogenic profile will depend more on those richer ingredients than on the surfactant itself.
Summary
C10-16 Alketh-2 is a synthetic surfactant that helps water lift away oil, dirt and makeup so skin and hair feel clean. Its oil-loving tail grabs grime while its water-loving head lets everything wash down the drain, giving formulas a gentle yet effective cleanse.
You will spot it in many face washes, body washes, shampoos and makeup removers, though it is not as well-known as powerhouse names like sodium lauryl sulfate. Still, it does its job quietly and reliably, which is why formulators keep using it.
Safety data show very low toxicity and low irritation at the levels found in rinse-off products. As with any new product it is wise to do a quick patch test first, especially if you have sensitive skin, to make sure your skin agrees with the full formula.