What Is C12-13 Alketh-7?
C12-13 Alketh-7 is a man-made ingredient created by attaching about seven units of ethylene oxide to a blend of synthetic fatty alcohols that have 12 to 13 carbon atoms. The result is a clear or slightly hazy liquid that mixes well with both oil and water. Chemists first explored this class of ingredients in the mid-20th century when they were looking for better ways to keep water-based and oil-based parts of a formula from separating. Over time the cosmetic industry adopted C12-13 Alketh-7 because it is reliable, easy to work with and has a gentle feel on skin.
Production starts with plant-derived or petroleum-based fatty alcohols that are purified, then reacted with ethylene oxide gas under heat and pressure. By controlling the reaction the manufacturer can choose how many ethylene oxide units attach to each alcohol molecule. For C12-13 Alketh-7 the target average is seven units which gives the ingredient its balance of water-loving and oil-loving parts.
You will most often see C12-13 Alketh-7 in creamy cleansers, face masks, lightweight lotions, anti-aging serums, sun care products and rinse-off hair conditioners. Formulators like it because it stays stable across a wide pH range and works well alongside many common preservatives and active ingredients.
C12-13 Alketh-7’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
C12-13 Alketh-7 serves mainly as an emulsifying agent. It helps oil droplets stay evenly dispersed in water so the product looks uniform and feels smooth every time you use it. A stable emulsion prevents separation, extends shelf life and ensures that every pump or scoop delivers the same ratio of caring ingredients to your skin or hair.
Who Can Use C12-13 Alketh-7
C12-13 Alketh-7 is generally well tolerated by all skin types including dry, normal, combination, oily and even many sensitive skins because it is non-ionic and tends to be gentle. Those with very reactive or compromised skin barriers should still proceed carefully as any surfactant-type material can feel drying if overused.
The ingredient is made from plant or petroleum sources and contains no animal-derived matter so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Its production does not rely on animal by-products.
Current safety reports show no specific concerns for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the ingredient is used at the low levels typical in cosmetics. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should run their routine past a doctor to be sure.
C12-13 Alketh-7 does not increase photosensitivity and will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It is also odorless and free of known hormone disruptors which makes it easy to slot into most routines.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to any cosmetic ingredient can differ from person to person. The effects below are only potential outcomes and most users will not notice them as long as the product is well formulated and used as directed.
- Mild skin irritation: A small number of users may feel stinging or see redness after application especially on broken or very dry skin
- Dryness or tightness: Overuse in leave-on products can sometimes strip natural oils and leave skin feeling tight
- Contact dermatitis: Rare allergic reactions can lead to itching flaking or small bumps
- Eye irritation: If the ingredient gets into the eyes it can cause temporary tearing or discomfort
If you notice any of these reactions stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist for advice.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5. C12-13 Alketh-7 is a lightweight non-ionic emulsifier that tends to sit on the surface and rinse away rather than sinking deep into pores, so it has a very low chance of trapping oil or debris. Most formulas use it at modest levels which further reduces any clogging risk.
Suitable for acne-prone skin in most cases.
Because it is usually paired with other low-comedogenic ingredients in cleansers and lotions, the overall product is unlikely to aggravate breakouts. Still, the final pore-clogging potential depends on the full formula, not just this single component.
Summary
C12-13 Alketh-7 mainly acts as an emulsifier, keeping oil and water evenly blended so a product stays smooth and effective from first use to last. Its mix of fatty alcohol and seven ethylene oxide units gives it both water-loving and oil-loving sides which is why it can hold a formula together without feeling heavy.
It is a workhorse rather than a headline ingredient, quietly featured in many cleansers, lotions and hair products but rarely called out on the front label. Chemists appreciate its reliability and broad compatibility which is why it continues to appear in new launches each year.
Current safety data show it is low risk when used at the levels typical in cosmetics. As with any new product it is wise to perform a quick patch test to make sure your skin agrees with the overall formula.