What Is C12-14 Alketh-5?
C12-14 Alketh-5 is a synthetic ingredient made by attaching an average of five ethylene oxide units to medium-chain fatty alcohols that have 12 to 14 carbon atoms. These fatty alcohols are usually produced from plant oils like coconut or palm, then refined in a lab to create a uniform raw material. The pairing of the alcohol backbone with ethylene oxide turns an oily substance into one that mixes well with water, giving the molecule its soap-like character.
Polyethylene glycol ethers of fatty alcohols began appearing in cosmetics in the mid-20th century when chemists were looking for gentler alternatives to traditional soaps. Over time, tweaks in chain length and the number of ethylene oxide units led to many variants, including C12-14 Alketh-5. Its balance of oil-loving and water-loving parts makes it mild yet effective, which explains its staying power in modern formulas.
Manufacturing involves two main steps. First, the chosen C12-14 alcohol blend is reacted with ethylene oxide under controlled heat and pressure. Next, the product is purified to remove any unreacted material. The result is a clear to slightly hazy liquid that dissolves easily in water and blends smoothly with other ingredients.
You will most often find C12-14 Alketh-5 in face cleansers, body washes, shampoos, bubble baths and micellar waters. It can also show up in masks that need a rinse-off stage and in makeup removers where a gentle yet thorough cleansing action is required.
C12-14 Alketh-5’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators reach for C12-14 Alketh-5 mainly for its cleansing ability. Its unique structure surrounds dirt, oil and makeup, lifting them away from skin or hair so they can be rinsed off with water. This action lets brands create products that feel mild, lather well and leave a fresh finish without the tight, squeaky sensation stronger detergents can cause.
Who Can Use C12-14 Alketh-5
C12-14 Alketh-5 is usually well tolerated by normal, oily and combination skin because it rinses clean without leaving a heavy film. Dry or very sensitive skin can still use it, but these users may prefer formulas where it is paired with extra soothing agents to offset possible tightness. Those with a known sensitivity to surfactants might want to proceed with caution as any cleansing agent has the potential to irritate compromised skin barriers.
The ingredient is synthesized from plant-derived fatty alcohols so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians as long as the finished product is not tested on animals and all other ingredients meet personal standards.
Current safety data show no specific concerns for pregnancy or breastfeeding. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should run products containing C12-14 Alketh-5 past a healthcare professional just to be safe.
C12-14 Alketh-5 is not known to increase photosensitivity so there is no added risk of sunburn linked to its use. Because it is almost always found in rinse-off products, the contact time with skin is short, further lowering the chance of problems.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical C12-14 Alketh-5 vary from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects, but most users should not expect to experience them when the ingredient is used at appropriate levels in a well-formulated product.
- Skin irritation such as redness, itching or stinging
- Eye irritation if the cleanser accidentally gets into the eyes
- Temporary dryness or tightness, especially on already dehydrated skin
- Contact dermatitis in individuals with a specific allergy to ethoxylated alcohols
If any discomfort or unusual reaction occurs stop using the product and seek advice from a qualified healthcare provider.
Comedogenic Rating
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C12-14 Alketh-5 is highly water soluble and designed to rinse completely off skin and hair, so it does not linger long enough to block pores. It contains no heavy oils or waxes that could trap dead cells or sebum, which is why its clog-pore potential is considered negligible.
This makes the ingredient generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts.
Because it is almost always found in rinse-off cleansers, its low contact time further reduces any chance of residue-related congestion.
Summary
C12-14 Alketh-5 is mainly valued for its cleansing power. The molecule’s oil-loving tail grabs onto makeup, sunscreen and excess sebum while its water-loving head keeps everything suspended so the mixture washes away with ease. This dual action lets formulators create products that feel mild yet thoroughly remove grime.
You will spot it regularly in everyday face washes, shampoos and body cleansers. It may not be a headline ingredient but it is a steady workhorse that shows up in many mainstream and boutique formulas alike.
Current research and decades of consumer use rate it as low risk when used as directed. Most people can enjoy its benefits without issue, though a quick patch test is always a smart move when trying any new product.