What Is C12-13 Alketh-6?
C12-13 Alketh-6 is a synthetic ingredient created by reacting a blend of fatty alcohols that contain 12 to 13 carbon atoms with about six units of ethylene oxide. The result is a polyethylene glycol ether that behaves like a gentle surfactant and helper molecule inside many cosmetic formulas. Originally cataloged under the name C12-13 Pareth-6, it gained traction in the late twentieth century when chemists looked for versatile, cost-effective alternatives to naturally derived emulsifiers. The manufacturing process begins with petroleum-derived fatty alcohols or plant-sourced counterparts such as coconut or palm oils. These alcohols undergo ethoxylation, a controlled reaction that attaches the ethylene oxide units, fine-tuning the ingredient’s water-loving and oil-loving balance.
Because of this balance, C12-13 Alketh-6 is widely used in products where oil and water need to stay mixed. You will often spot it in rinse-off cleansers, facial masks, lightweight moisturizers, body lotions, hair conditioners, sun care formulas and makeup removers. Its dependability, mildness and compatibility with a broad pH range keep it on the ingredients list of many mainstream and specialty brands.
C12-13 Alketh-6’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Its main role inside a formula revolves around helping otherwise unmixable ingredients come together and stay stable.
- Emulsifying: By lowering surface tension between water and oils, it forms smooth, uniform emulsions that feel pleasant on the skin or hair. This improves spreadability, prevents separation on the shelf, boosts texture and ensures that active ingredients are evenly delivered with each use.
Who Can Use C12-13 Alketh-6
C12-13 Alketh-6 is considered gentle enough for most skin types, including oily, dry, combination and normal skin. Those with very reactive or highly sensitised skin might still prefer to steer clear because any polyethylene glycol derivative can on rare occasions trigger irritation or stinging for this group. There is no known reason it would worsen acne or clog pores so it fits well into routines aimed at breakout-prone users.
The ingredient is typically produced from petroleum feedstocks or plant oils, not animal sources, so it is generally viewed as suitable for vegans and vegetarians. If a brand claims full vegan status it should confirm its fatty alcohols come from plant or synthetic supply chains, which is common practice.
No data suggest that topical use poses a risk for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should show the product to a qualified healthcare professional before adding it to their routine, just to be safe.
C12-13 Alketh-6 does not increase photosensitivity and it has no known interactions with sunlight. Users should of course follow standard sun protection habits when using daytime skincare.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to C12-13 Alketh-6 can vary from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects, though they are uncommon when the ingredient is used at the low levels found in finished cosmetics that meet safety standards.
- Mild skin irritation or redness, especially on compromised or very sensitive skin
- Transient stinging if applied to broken skin or the eye area
- Contact allergy, presenting as rash or itching in individuals already sensitised to polyethylene glycol compounds
- Dryness or tightness if used in high concentrations in leave-on products
- Possible traces of the manufacturing by-product 1,4-dioxane if purification steps are not thorough, which could add to irritation potential
If any of these effects occur stop use right away and seek guidance from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
C12-13 Alketh-6 is water soluble and designed to rinse clean, so it seldom lingers on the skin or blocks pores. Its base is a lightweight polyethylene glycol chain rather than a heavy oil, which keeps residue to a minimum. A small chance of build-up exists because it originates from fatty alcohols, which is why it earns a cautious 1 instead of 0.
With such a low score this ingredient is considered friendly for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
Remember that the full formula matters. If C12-13 Alketh-6 is paired with thick butters or waxes the overall product might still feel heavy on congested skin.
Summary
C12-13 Alketh-6 is first and foremost an emulsifier that lets oil and water mingle smoothly. By lowering surface tension it disperses tiny droplets throughout the mix, giving creams and cleansers a uniform, pleasant feel while ensuring each pump delivers the same ratio of actives.
The ingredient is more of a workhorse than a showpiece. You will spot it in everyday cleansers, lotions, sunscreens and hair care because it is affordable, dependable and easy for chemists to slot into different pH ranges.
Safety profiles rate it as low risk. It stays near the skin’s surface and is used in small amounts, so irritation is uncommon. Still, every formula is unique and skin can be unpredictable. When trying a new product that contains C12-13 Alketh-6, patch test first to confirm your skin is comfortable with it.