What Is C12-13 Pareth-2 Phosphate?
C12-13 Pareth-2 Phosphate is a synthetic ingredient made by reacting C12-13 Pareth-2, an ethoxylated blend of medium-chain fatty alcohols, with phosphoric acid. The fatty alcohols usually come from plant oils such as coconut or palm so the starting material is naturally sourced while the final ingredient is produced in a lab for consistency and purity. The process creates a group of mild, water-loving esters that work well in skin-care and hair-care formulas.
Surfactants like this began showing up in cosmetics in the late 20th century when chemists searched for gentler alternatives to traditional soaps. By adding a phosphate group to Pareth-2 they found they could lower irritation yet still get a good lather. Since then the ingredient has become a quiet staple in modern cleansing products.
You will most often see C12-13 Pareth-2 Phosphate in face washes, shower gels, liquid hand soaps, micellar waters, shampoos and makeup removers. It may also appear in lightweight lotions that need a small boost in rinse-off feel.
C12-13 Pareth-2 Phosphate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient serves one key purpose in personal-care formulas:
As a cleansing agent C12-13 Pareth-2 Phosphate lowers the surface tension of water so oils, dirt and leftover makeup can mix with water and rinse away. It creates a soft foam that feels pleasant and helps spread the product evenly over skin or hair. Because it is milder than many traditional surfactants it supports gentle daily cleansing without leaving a tight or stripped sensation.
Who Can Use C12-13 Pareth-2 Phosphate
This mild surfactant is generally suitable for all skin types including normal, dry, oily and combination skin. Its low irritation profile makes it a good option for sensitive skin as well, though people with very reactive conditions like eczema may still prefer ultra gentle cleansers with fewer synthetic ingredients.
The ingredient is made from plant derived fatty alcohols and synthetic processing so it contains no animal by-products. This means it is compatible with vegan and vegetarian lifestyles provided the finished product has not been tested on animals.
Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals are not expected to face special risks from topical use because the molecule stays on the skin surface and is washed off. Still this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review any skincare routine with a qualified healthcare professional to be safe.
C12-13 Pareth-2 Phosphate does not cause photosensitivity so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It is also odorless and free of essential oils which is helpful for users who wish to avoid added fragrance.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to C12-13 Pareth-2 Phosphate can vary from person to person. The points below list potential but uncommon reactions when the ingredient is used topically in cosmetic products manufactured to proper standards. Most users will not experience these effects.
- Mild skin irritation such as stinging or itching
- Temporary redness or tightness, especially on very dry or compromised skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to phosphate esters or ethoxylated compounds
- Excessive dryness if used in high concentration or combined with other stripping surfactants
- Eye irritation if the cleanser accidentally enters the eyes
If any discomfort or visible reaction occurs discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 (very low)
C12-13 Pareth-2 Phosphate is highly water soluble and gets rinsed off quickly, so it does not linger on pores long enough to trap oil or debris. It also lacks heavy oils or waxes that typically clog follicles. For these reasons its potential to cause comedones is minimal.
Suitable for acne-prone skin though individual reactions can vary.
Because it commonly appears in wash-off formulas the brief contact time further reduces any clogging risk.
Summary
C12-13 Pareth-2 Phosphate acts mainly as a gentle cleansing agent that lifts away dirt, oil and makeup by lowering water’s surface tension and creating a mild foam. Its phosphate ester structure softens the harsh edge of traditional surfactants so skin feels clean yet comfortable.
While not a headline ingredient it is quietly popular in face washes, micellar waters, body cleansers and shampoos where formulators need dependable mildness.
Safety data show low irritation and low comedogenicity for most users. Still, whenever you try a new product containing this or any other ingredient, do a quick patch test to make sure it agrees with your skin.