What Is C11-13 Alketh-10?
C11-13 Alketh-10 is a liquid ingredient made by attaching about ten units of ethylene oxide to fatty alcohols that come from mid length (11 to 13 carbon) plant or synthetic sources. This process, called ethoxylation, turns oily alcohols into water loving molecules that blend well with both oil and water. The ingredient first appeared in household cleaning goods, then moved into personal care in the late twentieth century when formulators noticed its gentle yet effective cleansing action.
Manufacturing starts with the fatty alcohols, which are reacted with ethylene oxide under controlled temperature and pressure. The result is a clear to slightly hazy fluid with mild odor that dissolves in water. Because it balances oil and water so well it shows up in many rinse off products such as shampoos, facial cleansers, body washes and bubble baths. You can also spot it in makeup removers, exfoliating scrubs and some lightweight lotions where it helps keep the formula stable.
C11-13 Alketh-10’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Here is how this multitasker supports your favorite products:
- Cleansing – Loosens dirt oil and product buildup so they rinse away easily leaving skin or hair feeling fresh without a heavy residue
- Emulsifying – Binds water and oil phases together which stops products from separating improves texture and extends shelf life
Who Can Use C11-13 Alketh-10
This ingredient is generally well tolerated by most skin types including normal, oily and combination. Dry or very sensitive skin may feel a bit tight if the overall formula relies heavily on C11-13 Alketh-10 as its main cleanser, because any surfactant can remove some natural oils. If you know your skin reacts easily to foaming agents you might prefer gentler cream cleansers that pair this ingredient with heavier emollients.
C11-13 Alketh-10 can be sourced from plants or produced synthetically and contains no animal derived components, so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians as long as the manufacturer confirms a non animal supply chain.
Available safety reviews have not flagged special concerns for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the ingredient is used in rinse off or leave on personal care products. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should ask a healthcare professional before adding new products to their routine just to be safe.
The ingredient does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and there is no known interaction with UV exposure. It is also non volatile so inhalation risk during normal use is minimal.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical C11-13 Alketh-10 differ from person to person. The points below describe possible though uncommon reactions. When the ingredient is formulated at typical levels most users will not notice any problems.
- Mild skin dryness or tightness, especially on already dehydrated skin
- Transient stinging on broken or compromised skin
- Eye irritation if the product splashes directly into the eyes
- Rare cases of allergic contact dermatitis presenting as redness itch or small bumps
- Increased penetration of other active ingredients which could heighten their irritancy in very sensitive individuals
If any irritation or discomfort occurs stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
C11-13 Alketh-10 is a highly water soluble surfactant that does not remain on the skin after rinsing so it has little chance to build up inside pores. It lacks the long chain, oily structure that typically clogs follicles which is why its comedogenic score is close to zero. Formulas where it is the main cleanser tend to rinse cleanly without leaving a waxy film that could trap dead cells.
Because of this low rating it is generally suitable for people prone to acne or breakouts. Only if the finished product also contains heavy oils or waxes would pore blockage become more likely.
One extra note: even non comedogenic surfactants can disrupt the skin barrier if used at very high levels which could trigger rebound oiliness in some users so overall formulation balance still matters.
Summary
C11-13 Alketh-10 works primarily as a cleanser and emulsifier. Its ethoxylated structure grabs both oil and water which lifts grime then helps it mix with rinse water while also keeping the product uniform in the bottle. This dual action allows shampoos, face washes and light lotions to feel smooth foam well and stay stable over time.
The ingredient has enjoyed steady but quiet popularity since the late twentieth century. It is not a buzzword component you will see on marketing banners yet chemists reach for it often when they need a gentle reliable surfactant that plays nicely with other ingredients.
Current safety reviews classify C11-13 Alketh-10 as low risk when used at cosmetic concentrations. Most people tolerate it well though any cleanser can cause dryness on very sensitive skin. As always try a patch test when adding a new product to your routine to make sure it agrees with your unique skin profile.