What Is Dea-C12-13 Pareth-3 Sulfate?
Dea-C12-13 Pareth-3 Sulfate is a synthetic surfactant made by reacting a mix of coconut or palm-derived fatty alcohols that contain 12 to 13 carbon atoms with about three units of ethylene oxide, then neutralizing the blend with diethanolamine and adding a sulfate group. The result is a clear to pale-yellow liquid that readily dissolves in water and foams when agitated. Surfactants like this began appearing in personal care during the mid-20th century as gentler, more readily biodegradable alternatives to traditional soap. Manufacturers favor it because it keeps working in hard water, maintains a stable pH, and pairs well with other mild cleansing agents.
The ingredient is produced in large stainless-steel reactors where the fatty alcohols and ethylene oxide are combined under controlled heat and pressure. After reaching the desired chain length, the mixture is sulfated, then neutralized to achieve a skin-friendly pH. Quality checks confirm purity and consistent active matter before it is shipped to cosmetic formulators.
You will most often see Dea-C12-13 Pareth-3 Sulfate in shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, bubble baths, liquid hand soaps, mild exfoliating scrubs and some makeup-removing formulas where rich foam and quick rinsing are essential for a pleasant user experience.
Dea-C12-13 Pareth-3 Sulfate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators rely on this ingredient mainly for one key purpose that benefits both the product and the end user.
Cleansing: As a surfactant, Dea-C12-13 Pareth-3 Sulfate lowers the surface tension of water, allowing oils, dirt and product buildup to lift away from skin or hair and rinse off easily. Its balanced foaming profile creates a creamy lather that feels luxurious yet rinses clean without a heavy residue, helping leave skin soft and hair refreshed.
Who Can Use Dea-C12-13 Pareth-3 Sulfate
This surfactant is generally considered suitable for most skin types including normal, oily, combination and even many sensitive skins because it is milder than traditional sulfates. Very dry or highly reactive skin, however, might find any foaming agent a bit stripping if left on too long or used too frequently so a richer, cream-based cleanser could be preferable in those cases.
The ingredient is synthetic and does not rely on animal-derived raw materials, making it appropriate for vegans and vegetarians. Manufacturers typically certify their supply chain to confirm no animal testing on the finished raw material as well.
No specific warnings have been issued for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Current scientific data show no absorption through intact skin at levels used in cosmetics, yet this is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should review all personal care products with a qualified healthcare provider to be safe.
Dea-C12-13 Pareth-3 Sulfate is not known to make skin more sensitive to sunlight so users do not need to take extra sun precautions beyond normal daily SPF recommendations.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Individual responses to topical Dea-C12-13 Pareth-3 Sulfate can differ. The points below outline potential effects that could occur although most people will not experience them when the ingredient is used at the appropriate concentration in a well-formulated product.
- Mild skin dryness or tightness, especially with very frequent washing
- Temporary redness or irritation on highly sensitive or compromised skin
- Stinging if product contacts eyes or open cuts
- Allergic contact dermatitis in rare cases of true ingredient sensitivity
If any of these reactions occur stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 (low likelihood of clogging pores)
Dea-C12-13 Pareth-3 Sulfate is a highly water-soluble surfactant that is meant to be rinsed off, so it does not sit on the skin long enough to block pores. It has no heavy oils or waxes in its structure, which keeps its comedogenic potential minimal. Because it is used at relatively low concentrations and is removed with water during cleansing, residue left behind is negligible.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin, provided the overall formula is gentle and rinsed thoroughly.
As with any foaming agent, over-cleansing can disrupt the skin barrier, which may indirectly trigger more oil production that could worsen breakouts, so moderation is key.
Summary
Dea-C12-13 Pareth-3 Sulfate is a synthetic, vegan-friendly surfactant that cleans by lifting oil, dirt and leftover products so they rinse away easily. Its balanced foaming and mild nature make it a handy choice for shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers and bubble baths.
While not as famous as sodium laureth sulfate or cocamidopropyl betaine, it enjoys steady popularity among formulators who want reliable foam with a gentler touch and good performance in hard water.
Safety data show it is generally well tolerated with a very low risk of irritation or pore clogging when used at the levels found in rinse-off products. Still, everyone’s skin is different so it is smart to patch test any new product that contains this ingredient to ensure personal compatibility.