What Is C14-15 Alketh-8 Carboxylic Acid?
C14-15 Alketh-8 Carboxylic Acid is a synthetic fatty acid derived from a blend of plant based alcohols that contain 14 to 15 carbon atoms. Chemists attach about eight units of ethylene oxide to the alcohols then convert the result into an acid, giving the ingredient both oil loving and water loving parts. This balance lets it mix oily residue with water so it can be rinsed away.
The compound first appeared in the late twentieth century as manufacturers looked for milder options to replace older, harsher detergents. Its ability to create a gentle but effective clean quickly made it popular in skin care labs. Today large scale production starts with coconut or palm sourced fatty alcohols. These are reacted with ethylene oxide in controlled conditions, followed by oxidation to introduce the acid group. The finished material is purified and checked for quality before it reaches cosmetic makers.
You will most often spot C14-15 Alketh-8 Carboxylic Acid in face cleansers, micellar waters, body washes, exfoliating scrubs, bubble baths and makeup removing wipes. Formulators use it when they need a surfactant that cleans without stripping the skin’s natural lipids.
C14-15 Alketh-8 Carboxylic Acid’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient serves a single but important role in personal care formulas.
Cleansing: Its surfactant nature loosens dirt, excess oil and makeup so they can be lifted away with water. Because it is partly derived from fatty alcohols, it tends to be less irritating than stronger sulfate based cleansers, which helps products feel gentle while still leaving skin fresh and comfortable.
Who Can Use C14-15 Alketh-8 Carboxylic Acid
C14-15 Alketh-8 Carboxylic Acid suits most skin types, including oily, combination, normal and sensitive, because it cleans without a strong stripping effect. Very dry or eczema-prone skin might still prefer richer cleansers that leave more moisture behind.
The ingredient is made from plant sourced fatty alcohols and petrochemical ethylene oxide, with no animal-derived material, so it is considered suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
No studies flag special concerns for pregnant or breastfeeding users. That said this information is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should show any skin care product to a doctor before use just to be safe.
C14-15 Alketh-8 Carboxylic Acid does not cause photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more likely to burn in the sun. It is also fragrance free and dye free, which lowers the chance of scent-related irritation.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical C14-15 Alketh-8 Carboxylic Acid vary from person to person. The following are potential but uncommon effects when the ingredient is used at typical levels in finished products formulated by reputable brands.
- Mild stinging or redness on very sensitive or compromised skin
- Temporary dryness or tightness if overused or left on the skin too long
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis marked by itching or small bumps
- Eye irritation if the cleanser accidentally gets into the eyes
If any negative reaction occurs stop using the product and seek advice from a qualified health professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5
C14-15 Alketh-8 Carboxylic Acid is highly water soluble and designed to rinse off completely, which means it spends very little time sitting on the skin and has almost no chance to block pores. Its molecular structure is more like a detergent than an oily emollient, so it lacks the heavy, waxy qualities that usually cause breakouts. A small rating of 1 is given rather than 0 because any surfactant can leave a light residue if a product is not rinsed well, though this is rarely an issue.
People who are prone to acne can generally use products containing this ingredient without worrying about extra clogging.
Because the acid is often paired with other surfactants, the overall formula matters. If a cleanser also includes heavy oils or butters, pore clogging potential may rise even though this specific ingredient stays low.
Summary
C14-15 Alketh-8 Carboxylic Acid is a mild cleansing agent that helps dissolve oil, dirt and makeup so they can be washed away with water. Its split personality—one part loves oil and the other loves water—lets it grab grime then carry it down the drain, leaving skin clean but not stripped.
While not as famous as sulfates or coco-glucosides, it has carved out a steady spot in face washes, micellar waters and gentle body cleansers because formulators like its balance of cleaning power and skin friendliness.
Current safety data show it to be low risk when used at the levels found in cosmetics, with only occasional redness or dryness reported in very sensitive users. As with any new skin care product it is wise to patch test first and see how your own skin responds before making it part of your routine.