What Is C12-14 Sec-Alketh-20?
C12-14 Sec-Alketh-20 is a man-made ingredient created by attaching about 20 units of ethylene oxide to a blend of secondary alcohols that have carbon chain lengths of 12 to 14. The end result is a PEG ether that mixes the oily nature of the alcohols with the water-loving nature of the ethylene oxide chain, giving it useful surface-active properties.
The backbone alcohols are produced in a lab from petroleum or plant-derived feedstocks, then go through a controlled reaction with ethylene oxide. By adjusting the number of ethylene oxide units, chemists fine-tune how well the ingredient balances oil and water. The “20” in the name signals this average level of ethoxylation.
Surfactant chemistries like this one first became popular in the middle of the 20th century when the cosmetics industry needed reliable, mild alternatives to natural soaps. Over time formulators discovered that secondary alcohol ethoxylates offered good performance without a heavy feel, so they started showing up in modern cleansers, lotions and hair products.
Today you can find C12-14 Sec-Alketh-20 in face masks, lightweight moisturizers, anti-aging serums, sunscreens, rinse-off cleansers and even some styling creams. It is prized for keeping formulas smooth and stable so that the product you squeeze out on day 90 feels the same as on day 1.
C12-14 Sec-Alketh-20’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In personal care products this ingredient mainly helps a formula hold together and feel pleasant on the skin or hair.
- Emulsion stabilising – Keeps oil and water phases from separating during shelf life so the product stays uniform and effective
- Emulsifying – Helps blend oily ingredients with water during manufacturing allowing brands to create light non-greasy textures that spread easily
Who Can Use C12-14 Sec-Alketh-20
Because it is mild and has a balanced oil-to-water affinity, C12-14 Sec-Alketh-20 suits most skin types including normal, oily, combination and even sensitive skin that dislikes heavy or greasy textures. Very dry or compromised skin might find high levels a little too cleansing, though the amounts used in leave-on products are usually low enough to avoid discomfort.
The ingredient is synthesised from petroleum or plant-derived feedstocks and contains no animal-derived material, so it is generally considered suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Always check the full ingredient list of the finished product, as other components might not meet the same criteria.
Current safety data indicate no specific risk for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the ingredient is used in cosmetics. Systemic absorption is minimal and the molecule is not known to be hormonally active. This is not medical advice; anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review their skincare routine with a qualified healthcare professional to be safe.
C12-14 Sec-Alketh-20 does not increase photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It also plays well with other common cosmetic ingredients and is found in both rinse-off and leave-on formulas.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to C12-14 Sec-Alketh-20 vary from person to person. The effects listed below are merely possibilities and are unlikely to occur for most users when the ingredient is properly formulated and used at typical cosmetic levels.
- Mild skin irritation – very sensitive or compromised skin may experience temporary redness or stinging
- Contact dermatitis – rare allergic responses such as itching or small rash can develop in individuals with ethoxylate sensitivities
- Eye irritation – can cause watering or stinging if it accidentally gets into the eyes, especially in higher-foaming cleansers
- Excess dryness – at higher concentrations in rinse-off products the surfactant action may strip natural oils leading to a tight feeling
If any negative reaction occurs stop using the product and consult a dermatologist or healthcare professional for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
C12-14 Sec-Alketh-20 is a water-soluble nonionic surfactant that tends to rinse away cleanly and leaves little oily residue on skin. Because it is not a fatty oil or wax the likelihood of it blocking pores is very low, hence the near-non-comedogenic score of 1.
Most people prone to acne or breakouts can use products containing this ingredient without extra concern, provided the rest of the formula is also low in pore-clogging materials.
As with any surfactant, the overall comedogenic potential depends on the entire product. Heavy creams rich in butters will remain more comedogenic than lightweight gels even if both include C12-14 Sec-Alketh-20.
Summary
C12-14 Sec-Alketh-20 works chiefly as an emulsifier and emulsion stabiliser, meaning it helps oil and water mix during production then keeps them from separating on the shelf. Its structure combines an oil-loving alcohol tail with a long water-loving PEG chain, allowing it to sit at the oil-water interface and hold everything together.
While not as famous as headline actives like hyaluronic acid, this behind-the-scenes helper shows up in many modern cleansers, lotions and sunscreens because it creates smooth light textures and supports formula stability.
Current safety data rate the ingredient as low-risk for skin irritation or systemic effects. It is generally considered safe for most skin types, vegans and pregnant or breastfeeding users. As always, try a simple patch test when starting any new product to make sure your skin agrees with the full formula.