What Is C14-15 Pareth-13?
C14-15 Pareth-13 is a synthetic ingredient made by attaching roughly 13 units of ethylene oxide to fatty alcohols that come from mid-length (14 to 15 carbon) fatty acids. These fatty alcohols are usually sourced from coconut or palm oil. The process, called ethoxylation, turns the naturally waxy alcohols into a water-loving molecule that can mix oil and water with ease.
The cosmetic industry began using ethoxylated fatty alcohols in the 1960s when formulators needed gentler options than soaps and harsher detergents. Over time C14-15 Pareth-13 became popular because its 13-unit ethoxylation hits a sweet spot: it is strong enough to clean yet mild enough for daily skin contact.
Production starts with purified C14-C15 fatty alcohols that are reacted with ethylene oxide under controlled heat and pressure. After neutralization and purification the result is a clear to slightly hazy liquid that dissolves in water and many oils.
You will most often find C14-15 Pareth-13 in facial cleansers, micellar waters, exfoliating masks, light lotions, cream-gel moisturizers and rinse-off hair treatments. It is prized for keeping formulas stable so textures stay smooth from the first pump to the last.
C14-15 Pareth-13’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators lean on C14-15 Pareth-13 for two main reasons
- Cleansing: Its balanced structure lifts away dirt, makeup and excess oil without stripping the skin’s natural barrier which helps leave skin feeling fresh and comfortable after rinsing
- Emulsifying: It binds water with oils and silicones so creams and lotions stay uniform improving spreadability and preventing separation during a product’s shelf life
Who Can Use C14-15 Pareth-13
C14-15 Pareth-13 is generally well tolerated by all major skin types including oily, combination, normal and dry skin because it cleanses without leaving a tight residue. Sensitive skin usually fares well too thanks to its mildness though individuals prone to redness or eczema should still monitor how their skin feels when introducing any new cleanser.
The ingredient is produced from coconut or palm-derived fatty alcohols reacted with synthetic ethylene oxide so it contains no animal substances. That makes it suitable for both vegetarians and vegans provided the finished product is certified cruelty-free.
No studies link C14-15 Pareth-13 to hormonal effects so products containing it are considered low risk for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. This is informational only: anyone expecting or nursing should review their skincare routine with a healthcare professional to be safe.
C14-15 Pareth-13 does not cause photosensitivity and does not interfere with common actives like vitamin C or retinoids. It rinses cleanly and leaves no film so it pairs well in multi-step routines.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to C14-15 Pareth-13 vary from person to person. The following points outline potential side effects although most users will not experience them when the ingredient is used correctly in a well-formulated product.
- Mild skin irritation such as transient stinging or redness
- Dryness if used in very high concentrations or paired with other strong surfactants
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis in individuals with a specific sensitivity to ethoxylated alcohols
If irritation or any adverse effect occurs discontinue use and consult a qualified healthcare provider if symptoms persist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
C14-15 Pareth-13 is a highly water soluble surfactant that rinses away without leaving an oily film that could clog pores. Its molecules are small enough to wash off easily yet not so small that they penetrate deeply and block follicles. Formulas usually include it at low to moderate levels which further reduces residue. Because of these factors it has a very low likelihood of causing blackheads or pimples.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
As with any surfactant the final product’s total formula matters: very heavy creams or poorly balanced cleansers could still feel greasy even if this specific ingredient is low risk.
Summary
C14-15 Pareth-13 works primarily as a gentle cleanser and as an emulsifier. Its ethoxylated structure grabs onto oil and dirt while remaining soluble in water so impurities lift off the skin or hair and rinse away cleanly. The same structure sits at the interface of water and oils in creams stabilizing the mix so textures stay smooth and uniform.
The ingredient has been around for decades and is a quiet staple in many everyday cleansers and light lotions. It is not a buzzword actives fans seek out yet formulators appreciate its reliability and mildness.
Safety profiles rate it low risk for irritation allergic reactions hormonal impact and comedogenicity. Still every person’s skin is unique so patch test any new product that contains C14-15 Pareth-13 to make sure it agrees with you.