What Is C12-14 Sec-Pareth-50?
C12-14 Sec-Pareth-50 is a lab made ingredient created by attaching about 50 units of ethylene oxide to a blend of secondary fatty alcohols that have 12 to 14 carbon atoms. These fatty alcohols are themselves produced from petroleum or plant oils, then chemically altered so the final material is water loving at one end and oil loving at the other. This split nature is what gives it its cleaning and blending talent.
The wider family of “Pareth” ingredients showed up in cosmetics in the late 20th century when chemists were looking for gentle, flexible cleansers that handled both oil and water. Over time C12-14 Sec-Pareth-50 earned a spot in many formulas thanks to its high ethylene oxide count which helps keep thick textures smooth and stable.
The manufacturing process starts with the fatty alcohol mix, which is put through a reaction that moves the alcohol group to a secondary position on the carbon chain. Ethylene oxide gas is then added in a controlled setting to build the long chain of repeating units. The result is a cloudy, viscous liquid or soft paste that dissolves easily in water.
You will most often find C12-14 Sec-Pareth-50 in rich facial cleansers, creamy body washes, exfoliating masks, wipe off makeup removers, hair conditioners and some anti-aging lotions that need extra stability.
C12-14 Sec-Pareth-50’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators turn to this ingredient for several practical reasons:
- Emulsion stabilising: Helps keep oil and water mixed so the product stays uniform during shelf life which means no separation and a smoother feel each time you use it
- Cleansing: Lifts dirt oil and makeup from skin or hair then rinses away easily leaving a fresh surface without a heavy film
- Emulsifying: Allows different types of ingredients to blend together in the first place giving formulators freedom to create creamy textures that spread evenly
Who Can Use C12-14 Sec-Pareth-50
Because it rinses clean and does not leave a heavy residue, C12-14 Sec-Pareth-50 works for most skin types including oily, combination and normal skin. Dry or very sensitive skin can also tolerate it in mild concentrations but the high ethoxylation level may feel a bit drying in leave-on formulas so anyone with a damaged skin barrier should monitor how their skin responds.
The ingredient is made from petroleum or plant-derived fatty alcohols and contains no animal by-products, so it is generally suitable for vegans and vegetarians if the brand confirms its raw material sourcing is plant based.
C12-14 Sec-Pareth-50 has a long history of low systemic absorption which makes it acceptable for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, yet this is not medical advice. Pregnant or nursing individuals should share their full routine with a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
It is not known to trigger photosensitivity, meaning it will not make skin more reactive to sunlight. No special timing or sun avoidance is needed beyond normal daily sunscreen habits.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical C12-14 Sec-Pareth-50 vary from person to person. The points below describe potential reactions that could occur, although most users experience none of these when the ingredient is properly formulated.
- Mild skin irritation such as temporary redness or stinging, more likely on very sensitive or broken skin
- Contact dermatitis in individuals who develop an allergy to the ingredient or to trace impurities
- Excess dryness or tightness if used at high levels in leave-on products
- Eye irritation if a cleanser or shampoo containing it accidentally enters the eyes
- Trace contaminant concern related to 1,4-dioxane formed during manufacturing, though reputable brands remove it to below safety limits
If any discomfort or irritation occurs stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
C12-14 Sec-Pareth-50 is highly water soluble and usually rinses off the skin without leaving a heavy film, which keeps its pore-clogging potential very low. Unlike some heavier fatty alcohols, its long ethoxylated chain makes it more dispersible in water and less likely to build up inside pores. Because it is typically used at moderate levels in cleansers and wash-off products, it has little time to sit on the skin and block follicles.
Most people prone to acne can use products containing this ingredient without seeing an uptick in breakouts, although the overall formula still matters.
Summary
C12-14 Sec-Pareth-50 acts as an emulsion stabiliser, cleanser and emulsifier. Its split oil-loving and water-loving structure lets it pull greasy dirt into water so it can be rinsed away, while its long ethoxylated chain keeps oil and water evenly blended so creams stay smooth.
The ingredient enjoys steady but not superstar popularity; formulators reach for it when they need reliable cleansing power plus emulsion stability without resorting to harsher surfactants.
Decades of use and safety reviews show it is generally low risk, with irritation or dryness only appearing in sensitive users or at very high levels. As with any new cosmetic ingredient it makes sense to patch test a product containing C12-14 Sec-Pareth-50 before folding it into a daily routine, just to be safe.