What Is C14-15 Alketh-4?
C14-15 Alketh-4 is a non-ionic surfactant made by attaching about four units of ethylene oxide to a blend of synthetic fatty alcohols that have 14 to 15 carbon atoms. The result is a clear to slightly hazy liquid that mixes well with both oil and water.
The fatty alcohol portion can come from plant oils or petroleum sources, though most modern supplies use sustainably sourced plant feedstocks. Ethoxylation, the process that adds ethylene oxide to the alcohol, is carried out in closed reactors under controlled heat and pressure. This step turns the otherwise water-repelling fatty alcohol into a water-loving ingredient that can sit at the oily-water interface and keep mixtures stable.
Non-ionic surfactants like C14-15 Alketh-4 have been in cosmetic labs since the mid-20th century when formulators were looking for gentler alternatives to soap. Over time it gained popularity because it works in a wide pH range and plays well with other ingredients, which makes it versatile for many modern formulas.
You will most often find C14-15 Alketh-4 in facial cleansers, makeup removers, micellar waters, moisturizers, sunscreens, masks, hair conditioners and leave-on treatments where a light yet effective emulsifier is needed.
C14-15 Alketh-4’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
C14-15 Alketh-4 is valued in skincare and haircare for one key role that makes many textures possible.
Emulsifying: It acts as a bridge between oil and water so creams, lotions and milky cleansers stay uniform from the first pump to the last. By keeping the oily and watery parts blended it prevents separation, improves spreadability and gives products a smooth, pleasant feel on skin or hair.
Who Can Use C14-15 Alketh-4
C14-15 Alketh-4 is generally suitable for oily, combination, normal and even dry skin because it is a mild non-ionic surfactant that does not heavily strip natural oils. Most sensitive skin users also tolerate it, although anyone with a history of reaction to ethoxylated ingredients might prefer to avoid it or choose formulas where it is present at very low levels.
The ingredient itself is synthetic and can be sourced from plant-derived fatty alcohols, so it is usually considered vegan and vegetarian friendly. If this matters to you check that the finished product has verified plant sourcing and is not tested on animals.
No data suggests that C14-15 Alketh-4 causes issues for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when used topically in cosmetic amounts. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should show the full ingredient list of any product to a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
C14-15 Alketh-4 is not known to make skin more sensitive to the sun, and it does not interfere with most common actives, preservatives or fragrances. It works across a broad pH range so formulators can pair it with acids, bases or salts without concern.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical use of C14-15 Alketh-4 differ from person to person. The points below are only potential reactions and are not expected for the average user when the ingredient is used correctly in a finished formula.
- Skin irritation – very mild redness, stinging or burning can occur, usually in people with already damaged or highly sensitive skin
- Dryness or tightness – high concentrations in a formula may temporarily disturb the skin barrier and leave it feeling stripped
- Contact dermatitis – rare allergic or irritant dermatitis can develop, typically presenting as patches of redness and itch
- Eye irritation – if a cleanser or makeup remover containing the ingredient gets into the eyes it can cause watering or discomfort until rinsed away
- Scalp sensitivity – in hair products some users may notice flaking or itching if they have pre-existing scalp conditions
If you notice any persistent discomfort, stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
C14-15 Alketh-4 is a lightweight, water-miscible surfactant that does not leave an occlusive film on skin, so it has little tendency to clog pores. Most of it is used at low levels or in rinse-off products, which further lowers the risk of build-up inside follicles. Because the molecule is primarily an emulsifier and not an oily emollient the chance of it trapping dead cells or sebum is considered minimal.
Suitable for acne-prone skin: Yes, the low rating means people who break out easily can usually use it without concern.
Comedogenicity can still rise if the finished product contains heavy oils or waxes that sit on skin for long periods, so always judge the full formula rather than a single ingredient.
Summary
C14-15 Alketh-4 is a non-ionic emulsifier that keeps oil and water blended by pairing its lipophilic fatty alcohol tail with a hydrophilic polyethylene glycol head. This balance lets creams, lotions and cleansers stay smooth and stable while feeling light on skin and hair.
It is a workhorse in everyday skincare and haircare, especially in micellar waters and gentle cleansers, though it may not be a buzzworthy star compared with newer naturally branded emulsifiers. Even so large and mid-size cosmetic manufacturers rely on it because it is cost-effective, pH flexible and compatible with most actives.
Safety profiles rate it as low risk for irritation or sensitisation when used at normal cosmetic levels. As with any new product a quick patch test behind the ear or on the inner forearm helps rule out unexpected reactions before regular use.