What Is C30-50 Alketh-3?
C30-50 Alketh-3 is a nonionic ingredient made by attaching an average of three units of ethylene oxide to very long chain synthetic alcohols that contain between 30 and 50 carbon atoms. The result is a waxy, off-white material that blends oil and water with ease. It was first cataloged for personal care under the name C30-50 Pareth-3 when chemists in the late 20th century began looking for milder alternatives to traditional soap-based emulsifiers. Production starts with laboratory-made fatty alcohols, usually sourced from petrochemical or plant-derived feedstocks. These alcohols are reacted with ethylene oxide in a controlled setting, creating a molecule that has both oil-loving and water-loving sections, the hallmark of an emulsifier. Because of its high molecular weight and gentle action it shows up in rich moisturizers, night creams, sunscreens, anti aging serums, hair masks, styling creams and makeup foundations where a stable, smooth texture is important.
C30-50 Alketh-3’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
The primary job of C30-50 Alketh-3 in a formula is to act as an emulsifier. It helps keep the oily and watery parts of a product mixed together so the cream or lotion stays uniform from the first use to the last. A stable emulsion feels silkier, applies more evenly and delivers active ingredients more consistently, which improves the overall performance and sensory appeal of the product.
Who Can Use C30-50 Alketh-3
C30-50 Alketh-3 is gentle enough for most skin types. Dry, normal and combination skin usually benefit from its ability to create rich, stable creams. Oily or very acne-prone skin can still use it because the molecule itself is not considered pore clogging, but heavier formulas that contain it may feel too occlusive for those who prefer light textures.
The ingredient is made from synthetic alcohols and ethylene oxide, so it is typically suitable for vegans and vegetarians. No animal-derived feedstocks are required, though anyone following a strict lifestyle should confirm the full supply chain with the manufacturer.
There is no evidence that C30-50 Alketh-3 poses special risks to women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. This is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should show the full product label to a qualified health professional before adding a new product to their routine, just to be safe.
C30-50 Alketh-3 does not increase photosensitivity. Standard daily sun protection is still recommended for overall skin health but no extra precautions are needed solely because this emulsifier is in a formula.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical ingredients differ from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects that have been reported, but they remain uncommon when the finished product is well formulated and used as directed.
- Mild temporary skin irritation
- Contact dermatitis in individuals with a specific sensitivity to polyethylene glycol compounds
- Eye irritation if the product is accidentally rubbed into the eyes
- Rare allergic reaction presenting as redness, itching or swelling
- Potential for clogged pores when used in very heavy formulas on acne-prone skin
If any discomfort or unexpected reaction occurs stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5
C30-50 Alketh-3 itself has a very low chance of blocking pores because the molecule is large, sits on the surface and is used at modest levels in most formulas. Any breakout risk usually comes from the overall richness of the product rather than the emulsifier. Because of this low rating, it is generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts, although lighter textures may feel more comfortable for very oily skin. One extra point worth noting is that when the ingredient appears in heavy balms or thick creams the finished product can still trap sweat and sebum, so texture preference matters.
Summary
C30-50 Alketh-3 is mainly an emulsifier that keeps oil and water blended, stabilises texture and improves how a product spreads on the skin. It does this by having a water-loving head and an oil-loving tail, allowing it to sit at the interface of the two phases and hold them together.
The ingredient is not a household name but formulators value it for creating rich, luxurious creams that stay smooth over time. It shows up most often in mid to high-end moisturisers, sunscreens and hair masks where long-lasting stability is important.
Current data suggests it is safe for regular cosmetic use with a very low risk of irritation or pore clogging, though heavy surrounding ingredients can feel too occlusive for some users. As with any new skincare ingredient it is smart to patch test a product before full-face application, just to be sure your skin agrees with it.