What Is C12-13 Alketh-12?
C12-13 Alketh-12 is a man-made ingredient created by reacting a blend of synthetic alcohols that contain 12 to 13 carbon atoms with ethylene oxide. On average each alcohol molecule picks up 12 units of ethylene oxide, giving the material its full name of polyethylene glycol ether. The result is a clear flexible liquid that mixes well with both water and oil. First developed in the mid-20th century when chemists were looking for milder alternatives to traditional soaps, it soon found a place in personal care labs for its ability to help stubborn oily ingredients blend into water-based formulas. Production starts with petroleum-derived alcohols that are purified then processed in pressurized reactors with ethylene oxide. The finished liquid is filtered, quality-checked and shipped to manufacturers. You will most often see C12-13 Alketh-12 in facial cleansers, micellar waters, makeup removers, light lotions, hair conditioners, shower gels and sheet mask serums where a clear stable formula is important.
C12-13 Alketh-12’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
C12-13 Alketh-12 serves one key role in cosmetics: it is a solubilizing agent. By helping tiny amounts of oils, fragrances and active ingredients dissolve evenly in water it keeps a product clear, prevents separation and lets the formula deliver its benefits consistently from the first use to the last.
Who Can Use C12-13 Alketh-12
C12-13 Alketh-12 is generally suitable for normal, combination and oily skin because it is light and non greasy. Dry or very sensitive skin can also tolerate it in most rinse-off or low-level leave-on products though formulas with a high percentage may feel slightly drying because the ingredient helps lift oils from the skin.
The material is made entirely from synthetic sources with no animal-derived components so it fits vegan and vegetarian standards.
Current safety data show no special warnings for pregnancy or breastfeeding when the ingredient is used at the low levels found in cosmetics. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should have a doctor review the full ingredient list of any product they plan to use just to be safe.
C12-13 Alketh-12 does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and has no known interactions with sunscreen filters.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical C12-13 Alketh-12 differ from person to person. The points below cover potential side effects yet most users will not notice any problems when the ingredient is used correctly in a finished product.
- Mild skin irritation such as temporary redness or tingling
- Slight dryness or tightness if used in high concentrations or on very dry skin
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis resulting in rash or itching
- Stinging or watering if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
If you notice any of these effects stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5. C12-13 Alketh-12 is a water-soluble solubilizer that rinses clean and leaves little to no residue so it has minimal potential to clog pores. The slight score of 1 reflects the remote chance that its oil-lifting action could trigger extra oil production in very reactive skin.
This low rating means the ingredient is generally fine for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
No published studies or user reports link C12-13 Alketh-12 to an increased rate of blackheads or pimples even with regular use in cleansers or micellar waters.
Summary
C12-13 Alketh-12 works as a solubilizing agent. Its water-loving polyethylene glycol chain teams with its short oil-friendly alcohol tail to pull tiny amounts of oils, fragrances and actives into clear water-based products keeping formulas stable and evenly dosed from first application to last.
It is a quiet workhorse rather than a buzzy marketing ingredient so you will see it listed on many labels but rarely highlighted in ads. Chemists appreciate its reliability and moderate cost when clarity and light skin feel are priorities.
Safety assessments show it is low risk for irritation, sensitization and pore clogging at cosmetic levels making it suitable for most skin types. Still, patch test any new product containing C12-13 Alketh-12 to be sure your skin agrees with it.