What Is C11-13 Alketh-6?
C11-13 Alketh-6 is a man-made ingredient created by attaching an average of six ethylene oxide units to mid-length synthetic fatty alcohols that contain 11 to 13 carbon atoms. This process, known as ethoxylation, turns the originally oily alcohols into a water-friendly substance that behaves like a mild soap and a mixing aid. Chemists first explored these ether-based materials in the mid-20th century when the beauty industry was searching for gentler alternatives to traditional soaps. Over time the balance of cleansing power and low irritation made C11-13 Alketh-6 a reliable workhorse in skin and hair care.
Manufacturing starts with lab-produced C11-13 fatty alcohols. These alcohols are reacted with ethylene oxide gas under controlled heat and pressure until roughly six units of the gas link up with each alcohol molecule. The result is a clear to slightly cloudy liquid that dissolves in both water and oil. Thanks to this dual nature it slips easily into formulas without altering scent or color.
You will most often spot C11-13 Alketh-6 in rinse-off products such as facial cleansers, body washes and shampoos where it lifts away dirt and excess oil without leaving skin tight. It also appears in micellar waters, makeup removers, lightweight lotions and even some exfoliating masks because it helps keep water and oil components blended smoothly.
C11-13 Alketh-6’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators lean on C11-13 Alketh-6 for more than one practical reason
- Cleansing – The ingredient surrounds oils, makeup and everyday grime allowing them to rinse away with water so products feel effective yet gentle
- Emulsifying – Its water-loving and oil-loving ends pull otherwise stubborn ingredients together creating stable creams gels or liquids that neither separate nor feel greasy
Who Can Use C11-13 Alketh-6
C11-13 Alketh-6 is mild enough for most skin types, including oily, combination and normal skins that appreciate its effective yet nonstripping cleanse. Skin that is already very dry or has a compromised barrier may find frequent use a bit dehydrating, so pairing it with richer moisturizers is advised.
The ingredient is made from lab-synthesized fatty alcohols and ethylene oxide, not animal sources, so it is generally regarded as suitable for vegans and vegetarians. As always, cruelty-free status depends on the finished brand’s animal-testing policy.
Current safety data show no special concerns for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the ingredient is used in rinse-off or leave-on cosmetics. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should clear new products with a healthcare provider just to be safe.
C11-13 Alketh-6 does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and there are no known interactions with common actives like retinoids or acids. It is also considered color-safe for treated hair at the levels normally used in shampoos.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical C11-13 Alketh-6 vary from person to person. The points below describe potential side effects, though most users will never encounter them when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.
- Mild skin irritation – transient redness or stinging, usually at higher concentrations
- Excessive dryness – noticeable tightness if the formula lacks counterbalancing emollients
- Allergic contact dermatitis – rare itchy rash in individuals sensitized to ethoxylated ingredients
- Eye discomfort – temporary stinging if a cleanser accidentally gets into the eyes
If any of these issues occur stop using the product and seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5 – C11-13 Alketh-6 is a lightweight ethoxylated surfactant that rinses cleanly and does not leave behind an oily film that could clog pores. Its molecular structure is designed to dissolve in water rather than sit on skin, which keeps pore blockage risk low.
Because of this low rating the ingredient is generally suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin, especially in rinse-off formulas like cleansers and shampoos.
One point to keep in mind is that comedogenicity can rise if the finished product pairs this surfactant with heavier oils or waxes, so always consider the full formula.
Summary
C11-13 Alketh-6 works mainly as a cleanser and an emulsifier. Its water-loving ethoxy groups grab onto grime while its fatty alcohol backbone connects with oils, letting dirt, sebum and makeup lift away easily when rinsed. In emulsions those same dual properties keep oil and water phases blended so creams and lotions stay smooth.
The ingredient is a practical staple rather than a trendy headline maker, yet it appears in countless everyday washes, shampoos and micellar waters because it does its job quietly and reliably.
Current research and decades of widespread use show it to be safe at typical cosmetic levels, with only a small chance of irritation for sensitive users. As with any new product it is wise to perform a quick patch test before regular use to confirm personal compatibility.