What Is C30-50 Pareth-10?
C30-50 Pareth-10 is a group of very long chain fatty alcohols, each one containing between 30 and 50 carbon atoms, that have been reacted with an average of ten units of ethylene oxide. The result is a waxy, water-dispersible ingredient that bridges oil and water. The starting fatty alcohols can come from plant waxes like jojoba or from synthetic sources, then undergo an ethoxylation process in which ethylene oxide gas is added under pressure and heat. This step gives the molecule its “Pareth” name, turning an oil-loving chain into a balanced, surfactant-like material.
The cosmetic industry began using high-molecular-weight Pareths in the late 1980s when brands wanted richer creams that still felt elegant. Because C30-50 Pareth-10 keeps thick oils evenly mixed without heaviness, formulators quickly adopted it for premium skin and hair products. Today you will spot it in face moisturizers, night creams, cleansing balms, makeup removers, leave-on hair masks, anti aging serums, body butters, sunscreen creams and solid stick products where stability is key.
C30-50 Pareth-10’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In formulas C30-50 Pareth-10 serves two main jobs that improve both performance and texture
- Cleansing – Its surfactant character loosens oil, makeup and daily grime so they can be rinsed away. Because the molecule is large it tends to be gentler than many small surfactants, making it suitable for sensitive or mature skin
- Emulsifying – It holds water and oil phases together, stopping separation over time. This gives creams and balms a smooth, uniform feel and keeps active ingredients evenly distributed from the first use to the last
C30-50 Pareth-10 is generally well tolerated by all skin types including dry, normal, combination and sensitive skin because its large molecular size makes it milder than many small surfactants. Those with very oily or acne-prone skin may find rich formulations containing high levels of the ingredient feel heavy, though the compound itself is not especially pore clogging.
The fatty alcohol portion can be sourced from either plant waxes or synthetic processes, so vegans and vegetarians should confirm their product uses plant-derived or lab-made material. Many mainstream brands label the ingredient as vegan friendly.
No studies link C30-50 Pareth-10 to problems during pregnancy or breastfeeding. This content is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should check with a doctor before adding new skincare products.
The ingredient does not increase photosensitivity and can be used morning or night without raising sunburn risk.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical C30-50 Pareth-10 differ from person to person. The following are possible side effects, but they are uncommon when the ingredient is used correctly in a finished product.
- Mild skin irritation such as stinging or redness
- Transient dryness or tightness if used in a high-foaming rinse-off cleanser
- Contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to fatty alcohol derivatives
- Eye irritation if the raw ingredient or a concentrated formula enters the eyes
- Folliculitis or clogged pores in rare cases where a very thick balm is applied to acne-prone areas
If you experience any of these effects discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5
C30-50 Pareth-10 is built on very long fatty alcohol chains that have been modified to be partly water loving. This bulky, partially hydrophilic structure keeps it from sinking deeply into pores where typical acne plugs form, so it is unlikely to cause blackheads or whiteheads on its own. It may feel rich in high-oil creams, which is why some people with extremely oily skin might notice a heavier feel, but the ingredient itself has low clogging potential.
Suitable for acne-prone skin in most cases, provided the rest of the formula is lightweight.
Because it is an emulsifier, C30-50 Pareth-10 can actually help rinse away heavy oils that might otherwise sit on the skin, giving it a small indirect benefit for breakout-prone users.
Summary
C30-50 Pareth-10 works as a gentle cleanser and a robust emulsifier. Its surfactant character breaks the bond between oil and dirt so they can be washed off, while its long chain structure stabilizes water-and-oil mixtures, keeping creams smooth and consistent from the first scoop to the last.
Although not a household name like glycerin or hyaluronic acid, this ingredient enjoys steady use in mid to high-end moisturizers, cleansing balms, hair masks and solid sticks because it delivers reliable texture without irritation.
Current safety data shows a very low risk of irritation, sensitization or pore clogging for most users. As with any new cosmetic, patch testing a small area before full use is a smart way to rule out personal sensitivities.